Pituitary Gland and Hormones - Practice Flashcards

A set of practice flashcards covering posterior pituitary hormones (ADH and oxytocin), growth hormone (GH), hypothalamic regulators (GHRH, somatostatin, TRH), gonadotropins (LH/FSH), melanocyte-stimulating hormone, endorphins/lipotropins, ACTH, and adrenal gland cortex vs medulla.

Which two hormones are released by the posterior pituitary?

ADH (vasopressin) and oxytocin.

What is the primary function of ADH?

Promotes water reabsorption in the kidneys and causes vasoconstriction, increasing blood volume and blood pressure.

What triggers the secretion of ADH?

Low blood pressure and dehydration (increased plasma osmolality).

What is the primary function of oxytocin?

Stimulates uterine contractions and milk ejection from the mammary glands.

Where is growth hormone (GH) produced and what are its main targets?

Produced by the anterior pituitary; targets cartilage and other tissues to promote growth and influences nutrient metabolism.

What hypothalamic hormones regulate GH release and how do they work?

GHRH (growth hormone-releasing hormone) stimulates GH release; somatostatin (GHIH) inhibits GH release.

What hypothalamic hormone stimulates the thyroid axis and what does it do?

TRH (thyrotropin-releasing hormone) stimulates TSH release from the anterior pituitary, which then stimulates the thyroid to produce T3 and T4.

What do LH and FSH do in the reproductive system?

Gametogenesis and sex hormone secretion in the gonads.

What is melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH) and its effect?

MSH stimulates melanocytes to produce melanin, increasing skin pigmentation.

What are endorphins and lipotropins?

Endorphins are natural pain relievers; lipotropins promote fat breakdown (lipolysis).

What is ACTH and what is its function?

ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone) is produced by the anterior pituitary and stimulates the adrenal cortex to produce corticosteroids (e.g., cortisol).

What is the difference between adrenal medulla and adrenal cortex in hormone production?

Adrenal medulla secretes catecholamines (epinephrine and norepinephrine); adrenal cortex secretes corticosteroids (cortisol, aldosterone, and androgens).