What is the ventromedial hypothalamus?

The ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH) is a nucleus in the hypothalamus, which is a small collection of neurons involved in various physiological functions. In the context of aggression and eating behaviors, the VMH plays significant roles:

1. Aggression: The VMH is involved in generating aggressive behavior. It has neurons that, when activated, can lead to aggressive actions. Studies using optogenetics have shown that stimulating specific neurons in the VMH can evoke aggression in animals. The activation of these neurons is both necessary and sufficient to trigger a range of aggressive behaviors. These neurons interact with other brain areas, including the periaqueductal gray, which is involved in pain relief and aggressive responses 1 2 3.

   • 

     1

     Aggression and the Brain

     00:19:22
     
   • 

     2

     Aggression in the Brain

     00:23:35
     
   • 

     3

     Aggression and Neural Circuits

     00:31:57
     
   • 

     4

     Hypothalamus and Hunger

     00:07:03
     

2. Eating Behavior: The VMH also has a role in controlling hunger and satiety. Lesions in this area can lead to either hyperphagia (excessive eating) or anorexia (lack of desire to eat), indicating its critical role in feeding regulation. It contains diverse neuron populations that can either promote or inhibit eating, highlighting its complex influence on feeding behavior 4.

Overall, the VMH is crucial for regulating both primal behaviors like aggression and fundamental bodily functions such as eating.