15 The neurohypophysis A is part of the pituitary gland B re

15. The neurohypophysis A) is part of the pituitary gland. B) releases hormones made the D are correct. in C) release mineralocoticoids. D) can effect osmotic pressure of the blood. E) both A and

Solution

The answer is “E”

The posterior pituitary (neurohypophysis) is the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland and is part of the endocrine system. The posterior pituitary is not glandular as is the anterior pituitary.

Instead, it is largely a collection of axonal projections from the hypothalamus that terminate behind the anterior pituitary which serves as a site for the secretion of neurohypophysial hormones - Oxytocin and Vasopressin, directly into the blood.

These hormones are created in the hypothalamus and released in the posterior pituitary. After creation, they are stored in neurosecretory vesicles regrouped into Herring bodies before being secreted in the posterior pituitary via the bloodstream.

Hormone

Main targets

Effect

Oxytocin

Uterus, Mammary glands

Uterine contractions & Lactation

Vasopressin

Kidneys and arterioles

Stimulates water retention, raises blood pressure by contracting arterioles

Hormone	Main targets	Effect
Oxytocin	Uterus, Mammary glands	Uterine contractions & Lactation
Vasopressin	Kidneys and arterioles	Stimulates water retention, raises blood pressure by contracting arterioles