Anterior Pituitary | Posterior Pituitary |
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Structure Connecting to Hypothalamus: Hypothalamic-hypophyseal portal system |
Structure Connecting to Hypothalamus: Hypothalamic-hypophyseal tract |
Hormones Released:
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Hormones Released:
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The anterior pituitary is connected to the hypothalamus by the hypothalamic-hypophyseal portal system, which is a network of blood vessels. This system carries tropic hormones directly from the hypothalamus to the anterior pituitary.
The posterior pituitary is essentially an extension of the hypothalamus, connected by the hypothalamic-hypophyseal tract. This tract consists of axons of neurons that originate in the hypothalamus and terminate in the posterior pituitary, where they release hormones into the bloodstream.
The anterior pituitary secretes several hormones, memorably summarized by the mnemonic "FLAT PEG": FSH, LH, ACTH, TSH, Prolactin, and Growth Hormone, each targeting specific organs and regulating various bodily functions.
In contrast, the posterior pituitary releases two main hormones, using the mnemonic "powerful antioxidants" for easy recall: ADH, which targets the kidneys and influences water reabsorption, and Oxytocin, which stimulates labor contractions and milk release.
This understanding of the pituitary gland's structure and function highlights its crucial role in the endocrine system and its complex relationship with the hypothalamus.