Posterior and Anterior Pituitary Hormones: Functions and Regulation

Posterior Pituitary

The posterior pituitary only delivers hormones made in the hypothalamus into the bloodstream; it does not produce hormones itself.

which nuclei make hormones in the hypothalamus meant for the posterior pituary gland

Produced by neurons in the supraoptic nuclei and paraventricular nuclei; transported to the posterior pituitary for release.

Vasopressin (Antidiuretic Hormone)

Made in the hypothalamus (supraoptic and paraventricular nuclei), released by the posterior pituitary; increases water retention in kidneys, constricts blood vessels, regulates blood pressure and body water balance.

Oxytocin

Made in the hypothalamus (supraoptic and paraventricular nuclei), released by the posterior pituitary; stimulates uterine contractions during labor and milk release during breastfeeding.

Anterior Pituitary Hormones include which main hormones

adrenalcorticotrophin hormone

thyroid stimulating hormone

lutenizing hormone

follicle stimulating hormone

prolactin

growth hormone

Adrenocorticotrophic Hormone (ACTH)

Signals adrenal cortex to release cortisol (stress hormone).

Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH)

Stimulates thyroid gland to produce hormones regulating metabolism and body temperature.

Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)

Signals ovaries or testes to grow; stimulates sperm or egg production.

Luteinizing Hormone (LH)

Acts on ovaries or testes to release sex hormones like estrogen and testosterone.

Growth Hormone (GH)

Stimulates growth of bone and soft tissues.

Prolactin

Stimulates milk production from the breast.

Thyroid Gland

Located near the throat; responds to TSH to regulate metabolism and body temperature.

Adrenal Gland

Located above the kidneys; releases cortisol (via ACTH), norepinephrine, and epinephrine (fight or flight hormones).

Gonads (Testes and Ovaries)

Respond to gonadotropins (FSH, LH) to produce testosterone or estrogen.

Ghrelin

Released by the gastrointestinal tract (stomach) when empty; signals hunger and increases desire to eat; stops after eating.

Leptin

Released by fat cells when fat storage is high; decreases desire for food to help maintain body weight.

glucocorticoid hormone

a steroid hormone like cortisol released from the adrenal gland

menstrual cycle steps

1.estrogen levels get low
2.FSH is released and egg maturation and estrogen increases

3.rising estrogen levels=LH levels rise=ovulation