Question

Short / Long answer type questions.
If all the neural connections between the hypothalamus and pituitary were severed, the secretion of which pituitary hormones would be affected? Which pituitary hormones would, not be affected?

Answer 1

The hypothalamus is connected to the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland by means of a special portal blood system. The hypothalamus is directly connected to the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland by means of neurons. If all the neural connection. between hypothalamus and pituitary were severed, the secretion of hormones secreted from the posterior pituitary would be affected. Oxytocin and vasopressin, which are actually synthesised by the hypothalamus are secreted from the posterior pituitary.

Hormones secreted from anterior pituitary would not be affected. They include growth hormone (GH), prolactin (PRL), thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH), luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and melanocyte stimulating hormone (MSH).