Hypothalamus and Pituitary gland Flashcards
What is the primary role of the Pituitary Gland?
Controls the function of many other glands
Often referred to as the master gland.
How does the Pituitary Gland work with the hypothalamus?
As the command centre of the body
The hypothalamus and pituitary gland work together to regulate various bodily functions.
What systems does the hypothalamus connect?
Endocrine and nervous systems
This connection is crucial for maintaining homeostasis.
What functions does the hypothalamus regulate?
Body temperature, water balance, heart rate, and secretion of hormones
These functions are vital for maintaining homeostasis.
Where is the hypothalamus located?
At the base of the brain, below the thalamus and above the pituitary gland
Approximately the size of an almond.
What types of factors does the hypothalamus secrete?
Releasing factors and inhibiting factors
These factors regulate hormone secretion from the pituitary gland.
How do releasing factors travel to the anterior pituitary?
Via capillaries
This allows for quick signaling and regulation.
How do some hormones reach the posterior pituitary?
Along nerve fibres
These hormones are stored in the posterior pituitary for later release.
What connects the pituitary gland to the hypothalamus?
The infundibulum
This stalk is essential for communication between the two structures.
How big is the pituitary gland?
Size of a pea
Despite its small size, it has a significant impact on bodily functions.
What are the two distinct lobes of the pituitary gland?
Anterior and posterior lobes
Each lobe has different functions and hormone secretions.
What is the anterior pituitary also known as?
Adenohypophysis
This term refers to its glandular nature.
Does the anterior pituitary have a direct nerve connection to the hypothalamus?
No
It is linked via blood vessels in the infundibulum.
What hormones are produced by the anterior pituitary?
Gonadotropins (FSH & LH), Growth hormone (GH), Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), Prolactin (PRL)
Each hormone has specific target organs and functions.
What does Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) do?
Stimulates maturation of ovarian follicles and sperm production
Essential for reproductive health.
What is the role of Luteinising hormone (LH)?
Triggers ovulation, promotes corpus luteum formation, and stimulates testosterone production
It plays a critical role in reproductive processes.
What does Growth hormone (GH) stimulate?
Growth, protein synthesis, and organ maintenance
Vital for development and metabolic health.
What does Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) regulate?
The thyroid gland’s hormone production
This regulation is crucial for metabolism.
What does Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) control?
Hormone release from the adrenal cortex
It influences stress response and metabolism.
What is the function of Prolactin (PRL)?
Works with other hormones to initiate and maintain milk production
Important for lactation.
What is the posterior pituitary also known as?
Neurohypophysis
This name reflects its connection to the nervous system.
How does the posterior pituitary connect to the hypothalamus?
By nerve fibres
This allows for the quick release of hormones.
What hormones does the posterior pituitary secrete?
Oxytocin (OT) and Antidiuretic hormone (ADH, Vasopressin)
These hormones play critical roles in childbirth and water balance.
What is the function of Oxytocin (OT)?
Stimulates uterine contractions during labour and milk ejection
Essential for the childbirth process.
What does Antidiuretic hormone (ADH) regulate?
Water balance by reducing urine production
Key for maintaining hydration and blood pressure.
