The Hypothalamus and the Pituitary

What is the primary function of the hypothalamus as an endocrine organ?

The hypothalamus regulates the release of hormones from the pituitary gland and interacts with the nervous system.

What type of neurons primarily compose the hypothalamus?

Neurosecretory neurons (or neuroendocrine cells) that have axon terminals positioned against capillary blood vessels.

Name two hormones secreted by the neurohypophysis.

Oxytocin (OT) and vasopressin (AVP), also known as antidiuretic hormone (ADH).

What are hypophysiotropic hormones?

Hormones secreted from the median eminence that stimulate or inhibit the activity of the adenohypophysis.

What is the role of Thyrotropin releasing hormone (TRH)?

TRH stimulates the release of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) from the pituitary gland.

What is the function of Corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH)?

CRH plays a crucial role in the body's stress response.

What does Growth hormone releasing hormone (GHRH) stimulate?

GHRH stimulates the pituitary gland to produce and release growth hormone (GH).

What hormones are stimulated by Gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH)?

GnRH stimulates the release of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH).

What is Somatostatin (SS) and its role?

Somatostatin is a peptide hormone with inhibitory effects on the endocrine and nervous systems.

What type of neurotransmitter is dopamine (DA)?

Dopamine is a catecholamine and a chemical messenger in the brain and nervous system.

What is the anterior pituitary also known as?

The adenohypophysis.

List the six major hormones secreted by the anterior pituitary.

TSH, FSH, LH, GH, Prolactin (Prl), and ACTH.

What hormone family do TSH, FSH, and LH belong to?

They belong to the glycoprotein hormone family.

Which hormones belong to the GH hormone family?

Growth hormone (GH) and Prolactin (Prl).

What is Proopiomelanocorticotropin (POMC)?

POMC is a precursor protein that can be cleaved into several different pituitary hormones.

Name one hormone derived from Proopiomelanocorticotropin (POMC).

Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH).

What are the melanocyte stimulating hormones (MSH) derived from?

They are derived from Proopiomelanocorticotropin (POMC).

What is the function of β-Endorphin?

β-Endorphin is involved in pain relief and the body's response to stress.

What is met-Enkephalin?

Met-Enkephalin is a peptide that acts as a neurotransmitter and is involved in pain regulation.

What does β-Lipotropin (LPH) do?

β-Lipotropin is involved in lipid metabolism and the regulation of fat stores.