Hypothalamus and Pituitary Gland
Completion requirements
Learning Objectives:
- Describe the location and anatomy of the hypothalamus and pituitary.
- Explain the functional relationship between the two structures.
7. Key Points Summary
- The anterior pituitary is glandular, controlled by hypothalamic releasing/inhibiting hormones via the portal system, and secretes trophic hormones.
- The posterior pituitary is neural, acts as a storage and release site for hypothalamic hormones ADH and oxytocin.
- Hypothalamic
nuclei:
- Arcuate & paraventricular (releasing hormones) → anterior pituitary regulation
- Supraoptic & paraventricular (ADH/oxytocin) → posterior pituitary outpu
- Disorders can involve hypersecretion, hyposecretion, or mass effects