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Neuroendocrine Gatekeeper

Meaning

The neuroendocrine gatekeeper is a conceptual term used to describe a central regulatory structure, most often the hypothalamus, that serves as the primary interface and control point between the nervous system and the endocrine system. This structure receives input from the brain regarding stress, light, and metabolic status, and in turn, releases specific releasing or inhibiting hormones that dictate the output of the entire endocrine cascade. Its function is to maintain systemic hormonal balance in response to internal and external cues.