Final answer:
The hypothalamus connects with the eye to regulate pupillary reflexes through pathways including the dorsal longitudinal fasciculus and medial forebrain bundle, affecting the Edinger-Westphal nucleus and thoracic spinal cord. Visual signals are also sent to the superior colliculus and the suprachiasmatic nucleus for eye movement coordination and circadian rhythm control, respectively.
Step-by-step explanation:
The hypothalamus is integral for connecting the visual system and the autonomic nervous system, which is essential for regulating the pupillary reflexes in response to light. When high levels of light are detected by the retina, the hypothalamus induces a parasympathetic response that causes the pupils to constrict. Conversely, in low light, the hypothalamus prompts a sympathetic response that leads to pupil dilation.
The hypothalamus influences these responses through the dorsal longitudinal fasciculus and the medial forebrain bundle. These tracts allow the hypothalamus to affect structures such as the Edinger-Westphal nucleus, which is part of the oculomotor complex, and the lateral horns of the thoracic spinal cord, both having roles in eye and body's autonomic functions.
Moreover, visual signals from the retina are sent to the superior colliculus in the midbrain for coordination of eye movements and to the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) of the hypothalamus, which is responsible for regulating our circadian rhythms.