About the book
How hormonal signals in one small structure of the brain—the hypothalamus—govern our physiology and behavior.
As human beings, we prefer to think of ourselves as reasonable. But how much of what we do is really governed by reason? In this book, Gareth Leng considers the extent to which one small structure of the neuroendocrine brain—the hypothalamus—influences what we do, how we love, and who we are.
The hypothalamus contains a large variety of neurons. These communicate not only through neurotransmitters, but also through peptide signals that act as hormones within the brain. While neurotransmitter signals tend to be ephemeral and confined by anatomical connectivity, the hormone signals that hypothalamic neurons generate are potent, wide-reaching, and long-lasting. Leng explores the evolutionary origins of these remarkable neurons, and where the receptors for their hormone signals are found in the brain. By asking how the hypothalamic neurons and their receptors are regulated, he explores how the hypothalamus links our passions with our reason. The Heart of the Brain shows in an accessible way how this very small structure is very much at the heart of what makes us human.
Editions of The Heart of the Brain
- EBook
- ISBN 9780262346986
- EBook
- ISBN 9780262346993
- EBook
- ISBN 9780262347006
Read an Excerpt
How hormonal signals in one small structure of the brain—the hypothalamus—govern our physiology and behavior.
As human beings, we prefer to think of ourselves as reasonable. But how much of what we do is really governed by reason? In this book, Gareth Leng considers the extent to which one small structure of the neuroendocrine brain—the hypothalamus—influences what we do, how we love, and who we are.
The hypothalamus contains a large variety of neurons. These communicate not only through neurotransmitters, but also through peptide signals that act as hormones within the brain. While neurotransmitter signals tend to be ephemeral and confined by anatomical connectivity, the hormone signals that hypothalamic neurons generate are potent, wide-reaching, and long-lasting. Leng explores the evolutionary origins of these remarkable neurons, and where the receptors for their hormone signals are found in the brain. By asking how the hypothalamic neurons and their receptors are regulated, he explores how the hypothalamus links our passions with our reason. The Heart of the Brain shows in an accessible way how this very small structure is very much at the heart of what makes us human.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Heart of the Brain about?
How hormonal signals in one small structure of the brain—the hypothalamus—govern our physiology and behavior.
As human beings, we prefer to think of ourselves as reasonable. But how much of what we do is really governed by reason? In this book, Gareth Leng considers the extent to which one small structure of the neuroendocrine brain—the hypothalamus—influences what we do, how we love, and who we are.
The hypothalamus contains a large variety of neurons. These communicate not only through neurotransmitters, but also through peptide signals that act as hormones within the brain. While neurotransmitter signals tend to be ephemeral and confined by anatomical connectivity, the hormone signals that hypothalamic neurons generate are potent, wide-reaching, and long-lasting. Leng explores the evolutionary origins of these remarkable neurons, and where the receptors for their hormone signals are found in the brain. By asking how the hypothalamic neurons and their receptors are regulated, he explores how the hypothalamus links our passions with our reason. The Heart of the Brain shows in an accessible way how this very small structure is very much at the heart of what makes us human.
What core themes, tropes, or subjects are explored in The Heart of the Brain?
Mathematics and Science > Biology, life sciences > Life sciences: general issues > Neurosciences
Where can I read a sample of The Heart of the Brain?
You can read an official preview of the few pages here https://www.book2look.com/book/9780262346986
Who is/are the Author/s of the book The Heart of the Brain?
Gareth Leng
Who is the Publisher of the book The Heart of the Brain?
MIT Press
What are the ISBN numbers for the physical and digital editions?
The Heart of the Brain is available as ebook(ISBN 9780262346986) and ebook(ISBN 9780262346993) and ebook(ISBN 9780262347006)
Where can I buy The Heart of the Brain online or support local independent bookshops?
You can buy The Heart of the Brain from below
Where can I buy The Heart of the Brain?