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Multiple Choice
What do nerve fibers in the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland secrete?
A
Insulin and glucagon
B
Oxytocin and antidiuretic hormone (ADH)
C
Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)
D
Growth hormone and prolactin
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the anatomy of the pituitary gland: The pituitary gland has two main lobes, the anterior lobe (adenohypophysis) and the posterior lobe (neurohypophysis). The posterior lobe is connected to the hypothalamus via nerve fibers.
Learn the function of the posterior lobe: Unlike the anterior lobe, the posterior lobe does not produce hormones itself. Instead, it stores and releases hormones produced by the hypothalamus.
Identify the hormones secreted by the posterior lobe: The posterior lobe releases two key hormones—oxytocin and antidiuretic hormone (ADH, also known as vasopressin). These hormones are synthesized in the hypothalamus and transported to the posterior lobe for storage and secretion.
Differentiate the hormones: Oxytocin is involved in uterine contractions during childbirth and milk ejection during breastfeeding. ADH regulates water balance in the body by increasing water reabsorption in the kidneys.
Eliminate incorrect options: Insulin and glucagon are secreted by the pancreas, TSH and ACTH are secreted by the anterior pituitary, and growth hormone and prolactin are also secreted by the anterior pituitary. Therefore, the correct answer is oxytocin and antidiuretic hormone (ADH).