VCAM-1

Tuberoinfundibular pathway is a neural pathway that originates in the hypothalamus and terminates in the pituitary gland. This pathway plays a crucial role in the regulation of various hormonal processes in the body.

Function

The primary function of the tuberoinfundibular pathway is to regulate the secretion of prolactin from the anterior pituitary gland. The neurons in the hypothalamus produce and release dopamine, which travels down the pathway to the pituitary gland. Here, dopamine inhibits the release of prolactin.

Clinical significance

Disruption of the tuberoinfundibular pathway can lead to a variety of medical conditions. For example, certain antipsychotic drugs can block dopamine receptors, leading to an increase in prolactin levels, a condition known as hyperprolactinemia. This can cause symptoms such as galactorrhea (abnormal milk production), amenorrhea (absence of menstrual periods), and sexual dysfunction.

See also

• Hypothalamus
• Pituitary gland
• Dopamine
• Prolactin
• Hyperprolactinemia
• Galactorrhea
• Amenorrhea
• Sexual dysfunction

References

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