Hypothalamus & ADH

Question 1

Where is the hypothalamus situated?

Answer 1

• part of the brain
• situated above the pituitary gland

Question 2

What does the hypothalamus secrete?

Answer 2

• anti-diuretic hormone (ADH)

Question 3

When does the hypothalamus release ADH?

Answer 3

• osmoreceptors in the blood vessels of the hypothalamus detect an increase in the osmolarity (low water levels) of the blood
• the hypothalamus responds and releases ADH

Question 4

What does ADH do?

Answer 4

• helps to conserve water if the body is dehydrated

Question 5

How does ADH help to conserve water?

Answer 5

• by causing more water to be reabsorbed into the blood from the collecting ducts of the kidney
• so less water is lost in urine