What makes up the diencephalon?

The diencephalon is one of the five major divisions of the brain and consists of the following structures:

- Thalamus: The thalamus is a large, ovoid structure located at the base of the brain. It serves as a relay center for sensory information, sending signals to the appropriate areas of the cerebral cortex. The thalamus also plays a role in motor control, consciousness, and sleep-wake cycles.

- Hypothalamus: The hypothalamus is a small, but important, structure located beneath the thalamus. It is involved in regulating a wide range of bodily functions, including body temperature, hunger, thirst, sleep, and emotions. The hypothalamus also controls the release of hormones from the pituitary gland.

- Epithalamus: The epithalamus is located at the dorsal aspect of the diencephalon. It contains the pineal gland, which is responsible for regulating circadian rhythms.

- Subthalamus: The subthalamus is located beneath the thalamus and above the midbrain. It is involved in motor control and plays a role in the development of Parkinson's disease.