Question

Melanocyte stimulating hormone (MSH) in lower organisms is released by:

• A. Hypothalamus
• B. Pars nervosa
• C. Pars distalis
• D. Pars intermedia

Answer 1

The correct option is D Pars intermedia

The pituitary gland is divided anatomically into an adenohypophysis and a neurohypophysis.
Adenohypophysis consists of two portions, pars distalis and pars intermedia. Pars intermedia secretes only one hormone called melanocyte stimulating hormone (MSH). However, in humans, the pars intermedia is almost merged with pars distalis. Pars intermedia in lower organisms secretes MSH. It is responsible for darkening of the skin, often in response to changes in background color.