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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is NOT a part of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis?
A
Gonads
B
Pituitary gland
C
Hypothalamus
D
Adrenal cortex
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis: This is a critical endocrine system that regulates reproduction and sexual development. It involves three main components: the hypothalamus, the pituitary gland, and the gonads.
Learn the roles of each component: The hypothalamus releases gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which stimulates the pituitary gland to release luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). These hormones act on the gonads (testes or ovaries) to produce sex hormones like testosterone, estrogen, and progesterone.
Identify the adrenal cortex: The adrenal cortex is part of the adrenal glands, which are located above the kidneys. It is responsible for producing hormones such as cortisol, aldosterone, and androgens, but it is not involved in the HPG axis.
Compare the components listed in the question: Gonads, pituitary gland, and hypothalamus are all part of the HPG axis, while the adrenal cortex is not.
Conclude that the adrenal cortex is the correct answer because it is not a part of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis.