Hypothalamic–pituitary

Hypothalamic–pituitary refers to the complex interaction between the hypothalamus and the pituitary gland. This interaction is crucial for maintaining homeostasis within the body and is a central aspect of the endocrine system.

Overview

The hypothalamic–pituitary axis is an integral part of the larger neuroendocrine system, which regulates a variety of bodily functions including growth, metabolism, stress response, and reproduction. The hypothalamus and pituitary gland are connected both physically and functionally. The hypothalamus, located in the brain, sends signals to the pituitary gland via the hypophyseal portal system, a network of blood vessels. The pituitary gland, located at the base of the brain, responds to these signals by releasing hormones into the bloodstream.

Function

The hypothalamus produces releasing hormones and inhibiting hormones that control the secretion of hormones from the anterior pituitary. These hormones include thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH), corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH), and somatostatin.

The pituitary gland is divided into two sections: the anterior pituitary and the posterior pituitary. The anterior pituitary produces and releases hormones under the control of the hypothalamus. These hormones include thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), prolactin, and growth hormone (GH).

The posterior pituitary does not produce hormones, but stores and releases two hormones produced by the hypothalamus: vasopressin (also known as antidiuretic hormone, ADH) and oxytocin.

Disorders

Disorders of the hypothalamic–pituitary axis can lead to a variety of medical conditions. These include hypopituitarism, in which there is a deficiency of one or more pituitary hormones; hyperpituitarism, in which there is an excess of one or more pituitary hormones; and pituitary tumors, which can interfere with the normal functioning of the pituitary gland.

See also

• Endocrine system
• Hypothalamus
• Pituitary gland
• Neuroendocrinology

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