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Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements is true about the hormones involved in the hypothalamic-pituitary cycle?
A
The hypothalamus stores hormones produced by the pituitary gland.
B
The pituitary gland releases hormones that regulate the function of other endocrine glands.
C
The hypothalamus releases hormones directly into the bloodstream to target organs.
D
The pituitary gland produces hormones that are only involved in the stress response.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of the hypothalamus and pituitary gland in the endocrine system. The hypothalamus is a region of the brain that controls the pituitary gland, which is often referred to as the 'master gland' because it regulates various endocrine functions.
Identify the function of the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus produces releasing and inhibiting hormones that control the release of hormones from the anterior pituitary gland. It does not store hormones produced by the pituitary gland.
Examine the role of the pituitary gland. The pituitary gland releases several hormones, such as growth hormone, thyroid-stimulating hormone, and adrenocorticotropic hormone, which regulate the function of other endocrine glands throughout the body.
Clarify the misconception about hormone release. The hypothalamus releases hormones into the portal circulation, not directly into the bloodstream, to target the pituitary gland, which then releases hormones into the bloodstream.
Consider the variety of hormones produced by the pituitary gland. While some pituitary hormones are involved in the stress response, such as adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), the gland produces a wide range of hormones that regulate various bodily functions, not just stress.