Question

Which of the following hormones are produced in the hypothalamus and stored in the posterior pituitary?

• A. FSH and LH
• B. ADH and oxytocin
• C. TSH and STH
• D. ACTH and MSH

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

ADH and oxytocin

Oxytocin and antidiuretic hormone (ADH) are two hormones synthesized in the hypothalamus, that are stored and secreted from the posterior pituitary gland. Oxytocin promotes the contraction of muscle fibers around the milk secreting glands of the breast that results in the release of milk. It also accelerates contractions of the uterus during labor and the restoration of the uterus to its normal shape after delivery. ADH increases the permeability of the collecting tubules of the nephron allowing water to be absorbed into the circulatory system, thereby concentrating urine. The name vasopressin was originally coined for this hormone to describe the increase in blood pressure of many vertebrates, excluding humans except in high concentrations. In such cases, the hormone constricts the smooth muscle tissue of the renal arteries causing an elevation of blood pressure.