The Hypothalamus Communicates with the Anterior Pituitary Gland by Means

Question

The hypothalamus communicates with the anterior pituitary gland by means of a
A)portal system of blood capillaries and veins.
B)group of secretory neurons.
C)connection with the posterior pituitary gland.
D)All apply.

Accepted Answer

The hypothalamus communicates with the anterior pituitary gland by means of a portal system of blood capillaries and veins, known as the hypothalamic-pituitary portal system. The portal system allows the hypothalamus to release regulatory hormones directly into the circulation of the anterior pituitary gland, which then stimulates or inhibits the release of various hormones from the gland. Secretory neurons and the connection with the posterior pituitary gland are involved in the release of hormones from the posterior pituitary, which is not directly regulated by the hypothalamus via the portal system.