Summary
The hypothalamus controls the anterior pituitary, which signals target glands through trophic hormones.
In depth
Hypothalamic hormones reach the anterior pituitary via the hypophyseal portal system. Anterior pituitary secretes GH, TSH, ACTH, FSH, LH and prolactin; posterior releases ADH and oxytocin made in the hypothalamus.
Releasing and inhibiting hormones regulate pituitary secretion. Feedback from target glands closes loops. Disorders are diagnosed by hormone tests.
Remember: the posterior pituitary stores and releases hormones made in the hypothalamus.
The hypothalamus, in the base of the brain, links the nervous and endocrine systems. It makes releasing and inhibiting hormones (TRH, CRH, GnRH, GHRH, somatostatin, dopamine) that travel through a portal blood system to the anterior pituitary, which secretes tropic hormones (TSH, ACTH, FSH, LH, GH, prolactin) acting on target glands.
The posterior pituitary stores and releases oxytocin and ADH, made by hypothalamic neurons whose axons extend into it. Each axis is regulated by negative feedback from target hormones. Damage by tumours or injury can cause multiple hormone deficiencies.
Example: the HPA axis regulates stress through CRH, ACTH and cortisol.
Key idea: the hypothalamus translates brain signals into hormonal control.
Frequently asked questions
What is Hypothalamic-Pituitary Axis?
The hypothalamus controls the anterior pituitary, which signals target glands through trophic hormones.
Which area of biology covers Hypothalamic-Pituitary Axis, and how advanced is it?
Hypothalamic-Pituitary Axis is one of the 54 topics in Reproduction & Endocrinology. It is rated Intermediate, so it suits learners who already know the core vocabulary. Related topics in this area include Negative Feedback in Endocrine Control, Hormonal Control of the Menstrual Cycle, Endocrine Glands.
Can you give an example of Hypothalamic-Pituitary Axis?
Pituitary tumours can cause excess GH, leading to acromegaly.
What should I learn before Hypothalamic-Pituitary Axis?
Work through the Beginner topics in Reproduction & Endocrinology first, such as Reproduction, Asexual Reproduction, Sexual Reproduction, then return to Hypothalamic-Pituitary Axis. Intermediate topics assume the Beginner vocabulary.
What topics are related to Hypothalamic-Pituitary Axis?
The closest topics to Hypothalamic-Pituitary Axis are Negative Feedback in Endocrine Control, Hormonal Control of the Menstrual Cycle, Endocrine Glands, Hormones. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Hypothalamic-Pituitary Axis?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Hypothalamic-Pituitary Axis. To practise the whole of Reproduction & Endocrinology, use the Reproduction & Endocrinology quiz.
How is Hypothalamic-Pituitary Axis different from Negative Feedback in Endocrine Control?
Hypothalamic-Pituitary Axis: The hypothalamus controls the anterior pituitary, which signals target glands through trophic hormones. Negative Feedback in Endocrine Control: Rising hormone levels inhibit further secretion, as with thyroxine and TSH. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Hypothalamic-Pituitary Axis step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Negative Feedback in Endocrine Control and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Reproduction & Endocrinology quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.