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1. Glossary

Cortisol

A hormone produced by the adrenal cortex that is primarily an important stress hormone. It belongs to the group of glucocorticoids and influences carbohydrate and protein metabolism in the body, suppresses the immune system, and acts directly on certain neurons in the central nervous system.

1. News from the Institutes

Newly identified group of nerve cells in the brain regulates bodyweight

Potential for novel obesity treatments

26.05.2025

1. Krankheiten
2. Successful aging

Molecular Detectives

We are our memories. But neural firing alone cannot unravel the traces of memory. 

01.02.2026

1. News
2. Question to the brain

Advent Rituals for the Soul?

Lights, spices, singing together. I've heard that this has a positive effect on the mood during the dark season. Is that true?

24.11.2025

1. Glossary

Adrenaline

Along with dopamine and norepinephrine, it belongs to the catecholamines. Adrenaline, also known as epinephrine, is the classic stress hormone. It is produced in the adrenal medulla and causes an increase in heart rate and heartbeat strength, thus preparing the body for increased stress. In the brain, adrenaline also acts as a neurotransmitter (messenger substance), where it binds to so-called adrenoreceptors.

1. Glossary

Hypophysis

The pituitary gland is an important hormone gland in the body. It hangs like a drop below the hypothalamus and is no larger than a pea. The pituitary gland consists of two parts, the anterior lobe (adenohypophysis) and the posterior lobe (neurohypophysis). The anterior lobe of the pituitary gland has the special property of being partially exempt from the blood-brain barrier, allowing it to release hormones directly into the blood.

1. Glossary

Melatonin

Melatonin is a hormone released by the pineal gland in the brain when it is dark. Melatonin levels are highest at night and then decrease throughout the day. This makes it an important messenger substance for the "internal clock" and it appears to play a particularly important role in regulating sleep.

1. Glossary

Infundibular nucleus

The infundibular nucleus is also called the arcuate nucleus due to its curved shape. It is located in the hypothalamus at the base of the third ventricle and regulates hormone release from the pituitary gland via releasing and inhibiting hormones. It is therefore also involved in regulating appetite, energy balance, and growth.

1. Glossary

oxytocin

Oxytocin is a hormone produced in the paraventricular nucleus and supraoptic nucleus of the hypothalamus and released into the blood via the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland. It initiates contractions during childbirth and supports the milk ejection reflex during breastfeeding. It is also released during orgasm. Oxytocin can promote trust and strengthen pair bonding, but recent findings show that its effects are more complex and, in certain contexts, can also promote separation from out-groups.

1. Glossary

Receptor

A receptor is a protein, usually located in the cell membrane or inside the cell, that recognizes a specific external signal (e.g., a neurotransmitter, hormone, or other ligand) and causes the cell to trigger a defined response. Depending on the type of receptor, this response can be excitatory, inhibitory, or modulatory.