suprachiasmatic
Adjective
Meaning
suprachiasmatic (not comparable)
Situated above the optic chiasm; specifically, designating a nucleus or region in the paraventricular region of the hypothalamus. [from 20th c.]
Examples
A key component of the arousal system is the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), a tiny part of the hypothalamus located directly above the point at which the optic nerves from the two eyes cross.
Nocturnal and diurnal animals both have increased electrical activity in the suprachiasmatic nucleus, and corresponding secretion of melatonin from the pineal gland, at night.
The suprachiasmatic nucleus itself shows conspicuous oscillation activity, which intensifies during subjective day (i.
In 1990, Swaab and Hofman citation reported that the suprachiasmatic nucleus in homosexual men was significantly larger than in heterosexual men.
It is mediated by a circadian oscillator in the suprachiasmatic nucleus of the brain (central clock), which causes the kidney (peripheral clock) to secrete potassium in this rhythmic circadian fashion.