Thermoregulatory Centre - GCSE Biology Definition

The thermoregulatory centre is a part of the brain that helps control body temperature, ensuring it stays at a healthy level. It is located in a region called the hypothalamus. This centre receives information from temperature receptors in the skin and inside the body. When the body becomes too hot or too cold, the thermoregulatory centre sends signals to effectors such as muscles and sweat glands to help adjust the temperature. For example, if the body is too hot, sweating helps cool it down; if it is too cold, shivering helps to generate heat. Keeping the body at a stable temperature is important for cells and body systems to function properly.