(epithalamus) A dorsal posterior section of the diencephalon that comprises the trigonum habenula, habenular commissure, stria medullaris, and pineal gland. The epithalamus is the connection between the limbic system and basal ganglia, and is involved in the secretion of melatonin and the regulation of motor pathways and emotions.

(epithalamus) The dorsal posterior subdivision of the diencephalon. The epithalamus is generally considered to include the habenular nuclei (HABENULA) and associated fiber bundles, the PINEAL BODY, and the epithelial roof of the third ventricle. The anterior and posterior paraventricular nuclei of the thalamus are included with the THALAMIC NUCLEI although they develop from the same pronuclear mass as the epithalamic nuclei and are sometimes considered part of the epithalamus.