Pituitary Gland
It is considered the body’s master gland, as its main function is to produce hormones that regulate the functioning of other endocrine glands.
Previously, it was called the pituitary gland . It is approximately 1 cm in diameter, the size of a pea, and weighs between 0.5 and 1.0 g.
Functions of the pituitary gland
The pituitary gland has important functions, in addition to controlling other glands, it also contributes to the proper functioning of metabolism and hormone production.
Based on its relationship with the hypothalamus, the pituitary gland represents sites of interaction between the endocrine system and the nervous system.
The hypothalamus, which is a region of the brain, regulates the secretory activity of the pituitary gland. For example, some hormones from the hypothalamus are sent to the anterior pituitary gland via a part of the circulatory system called the portal system, which extends from the base of the hypothalamus to the anterior pituitary gland.
Learn more about the systems of the human body that the pituitary gland is related to:
Division of the pituitary gland
The pituitary gland is divided into two parts: the anterior or adenohypophysis and the posterior or neurohypophysis.
Adenohypophysis
The adenohypophysis originates from epithelial tissue. It secretes hormones based on the release and secretion of hormones that pass through the hypothalamus into the portal system.
In response to factors arriving from the hypothalamus, it secretes its own hormones, which are proteins, glycoproteins or polypeptides.
See the table below to see which hormones these are.
| Hormone | Description |
|---|---|
| Growth hormone | It is a protein that stimulates tissue growth and contributes to determining a person’s height. It also regulates metabolism. In cases of tumors in the hypothalamus or pituitary gland, this hormone may be produced in excess or in small quantities. |
| Prolactin | It is a protein that acts in the production of milk by the mammary glands. Its function in men is uncertain. |
| Adrenocorticotropin | Polypeptide that acts on adipose, muscle and pancreatic cells. |
| Thyroid stimulating hormone (thyrotropin) | Glycoprotein that stimulates the synthesis and secretion of thyroid hormones. |
| Gonadotropins (Follicle-stimulating and Luteinizing) | Gonadotropins are glycoproteins that promote the growth and function of the gonads (ovaries and testes). |
Read more about everything related to adenohypophysis hormones:
- Thyroid
- Ovaries
Neurohypophysis
The neurohypophysis originates from an extension of the hypothalamus and is made up of nervous tissue.
It is so called because it is an extension of the brain . Its function is to store and secrete two neurohormones that are described in the table below.
| Hormone | Description |
|---|---|
| Antidiuretic (Vasopressin) | Responsible for the reabsorption of water in the kidneys, reducing urine volume and excessive water loss. |
| Oxytocin | It stimulates the muscles of the uterus and plays an important role in the expulsion of the fetus during birth. |
Learn more about: Endocrine glands