Diencephalon

The diencephalon is one of two segments of the forebrain or prosencephalon (the other being the telencephalon which develops into the cerebrum). The diencephalon contains the thalamus, hypothalamus, epithalamus, sub-thalamus and the pineal gland. It is involved in relaying sensory information and impulses throughout the brain. The diencephalon is also involved in endocrine and limbic system functions.