Question

Discuss the importance of the pituitary gland.

Accepted Answer

The importance of the pituitary gland is as follows:

The pituitary gland is called the master gland of the human endocrine system because it controls the secretion of many endocrine glands. The secretion of pituitary gland is under the control of hypothalamus.

The pituitary gland is divided into two regions, such as anterior pituitary and posterior pituitary. The anterior pituitary produces and releases six hormones: growth hormone, TSH, ACTH, FSH, LH, prolactin. The growth hormone is released from the anterior pituitary, promotes the growth of the body.

TSH (Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone) stimulates the thyroid gland to produce thyroxine.

The gonad-stimulating hormones include LH (Luteinizing Hormone) and FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone), stimulating the gonads to secrete sex hormones.

ACTH (Adrenocorticotropic hormone) stimulates the adrenal cortex to release cortisol.

Prolactin stimulates the mammary gland to produce and secrete milk.

The posterior pituitary gland releases two hormones, such as ADH and oxytocin. The ADH (Antidiuretic hormone) increases the water reabsorption from kidneys. Oxytocin helps in the ejection of milk and contraction of uterine muscle during pregnancy.

Discuss the importance of the pituitary gland.

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