Question

Which of the following is not under direct control of pituitary gland with respect to the regulation of its secretory function?

• A. Adrenal cortex
• B. Adrenal medulla
• C. Thyroid
• D. Testis

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

Adrenal medulla

The adrenal medulla is a part of the sympathetic nervous system. The sympathetic nervous system and the adrenal medulla are collectively known as the sympathoadrenal system. The Adrenal medulla contains the chromaffin tissue containing the chromaffin granules. The chromaffin granules contain the hormones of the adrenal medulla, which include dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine. When stimulated by sympathetic nerve impulses, the chromaffin granules are released from the cells and the hormones enter the circulation. Thus, the adrenal medulla is a neurohormonal organ and its secretions are not under the control of the pituitary gland.