Pituitary Gland Function and Structure Quiz

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What is the primary role of the pituitary gland in the body?

To produce energy for cellular functions

To regulate blood flow throughout the body

To store nutrients for other glands

To release hormones that maintain cellular homeostasis (correct)

Which part of the pituitary gland originates from the Rathke’s pouch?

Adenohypophysis (correct)

Neurohypophysis

Infundibulum

Pars intermedia

How does the hypothalamus communicate with the pituitary gland?

Via the lymphatic system

Using the hypophyseal portal system (correct)

By releasing hormones into the bloodstream

Through direct nerve connections

Which structure serves as the stalk that connects the pituitary gland to the hypothalamus?

Infundibulum Signup and view all the answers

What defines the posterior pituitary in contrast to the anterior pituitary?

It acts as a hormone-storage area Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of growth hormone produced by the somatotropic cells of the anterior pituitary?

Facilitating tissue growth and metabolic functions Signup and view all the answers

Which part of the pituitary gland is responsible for storing hormones rather than secreting them?

Posterior lobe Signup and view all the answers

How is the secretion of growth hormone regulated?

Through two hypothalamic hormones Signup and view all the answers

What type of cells primarily occupy the anterior pituitary?

Glandular epithelial cells Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of thyroid-stimulating hormone?

To stimulate thyroid gland development Signup and view all the answers

Which hormone is released by the anterior pituitary that contributes to mobilizing fat in the body?

Growth hormone Signup and view all the answers

What anatomical structure is the intermediate lobe in humans considered to be?

A part of the anterior pituitary Signup and view all the answers

Which hormone regulates the secretion of thyroid-stimulating hormone by the anterior pituitary?

Thyrotropin-releasing hormone Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)?

Activation of the adrenal cortex for glucocorticoid release Signup and view all the answers

How is the release of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) regulated?

By gonadotropin-releasing hormone Signup and view all the answers

At what stage of life does the concentration of gonadotropins in the blood increase significantly?

At puberty Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of oxytocin during childbirth?

To stimulate uterine contractions Signup and view all the answers

How does oxytocin contribute to milk production in nursing mothers?

By causing myoepithelial cells to contract Signup and view all the answers

What effect do increased levels of gonadal hormones have on the release of gonadotropins?

Suppresses their release Signup and view all the answers

What triggers the hypothalamus to secrete antidiuretic hormone (ADH)?

An increase in blood solute levels Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of prolactin in males?

Its role is not yet fully understood Signup and view all the answers

What is the release pattern of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) throughout the day?

Peaks in the morning and decreases at night Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following glands is referred to as the 'master gland'?

Pituitary gland Signup and view all the answers

The hormone ADH primarily targets which part of the kidney?

Convoluted tubules and collecting ducts Signup and view all the answers

Which hormone is primarily responsible for stimulating the mammary glands to release milk?

Prolactin Signup and view all the answers

What regulates the release of prolactin?

Prolactin-inhibiting hormone Signup and view all the answers

Which hormone is involved in sexual and affectionate behavior?

Oxytocin Signup and view all the answers

What role do gonadotrophic hormones play in the body?

Essential for reproductive system development Signup and view all the answers

Which factor causes the uterus to increase its sensitivity to oxytocin during pregnancy?

Increase in oxytocin receptors on the uterine wall Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the pituitary gland?

To regulate the activity of other endocrine glands Signup and view all the answers