Endocrine System (Pt. 2) Flashcards
What types of hormones does the hypothalamus secrete to control the pituitary gland?
Releasing and inhibiting hormones
What is the main function of these hypothalamic hormones?
They control the release of hormones by the pituitary gland
How do hormones from the hypothalamus reach the pituitary gland?
Via the hypophyseal portal system
What is the hypophyseal portal system?
A specialized blood vessel system that connects the hypothalamus to the pituitary gland
Why is the hypophyseal portal system important?
allows for direct delivery of hypothalamic hormones to the pituitary, enabling precise control
What are releasing hormones?
Hormones that stimulate the pituitary to release specific hormones
What are inhibiting hormones?
Hormones that prevent or reduce the release of specific pituitary hormones
How does this system demonstrate the hierarchical nature of the endocrine system?
It shows how one gland (hypothalamus) controls another (pituitary) through hormone signaling
Why is the pituitary often called the “master gland”?
Because its hormones control many other endocrine glands, but it’s itself controlled by the hypothalamus
Why is the connection between the hypothalamus and pituitary gland important?
It coordinates the release of hormones that regulate many bodily functions
What regulates the pituitary gland?
The hypothalamus
How many hormones does the hypothalamus produce to regulate the pituitary?
At least nine
What areas do hypothalamic hormones affect?
Growth, development, metabolism, and homeostasis
What is the hypophyseal portal system?
A specialized network of blood vessels connecting the hypothalamus to the anterior pituitary gland
What’s the main function of the hypophyseal portal system?
It allows quick and direct transport of hypothalamic hormones to the pituitary gland
Why is the hypophyseal portal system important for hormone regulation?
It ensures precise regulation of hormone release, allowing immediate hypothalamic influence on the pituitary
What percentage of the pituitary gland’s weight does the anterior lobe make up?
75%
What does the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland secrete?
Hormones
What are hormones that target other endocrine glands called?
Tropic hormones
What type of tissue is the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland made of?
Neural tissue
How many hormones does the posterior lobe store and release?
Two
Where are the hormones stored in the posterior lobe produced?
The hypothalamus
Name the two hormones stored and released by the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland.
Oxytocin and antidiuretic hormone (ADH)
What is the main function of the anterior pituitary?
To secrete hormones that regulate various body functions, including growth and reproduction