Posterior pituitary
Posterior Pituitary
The Posterior Pituitary (pronunciation: poh-STEER-ee-or pi-TOO-i-ter-ee), also known as the neurohypophysis, is a part of the pituitary gland, an endocrine organ found in the brain.
Etymology
The term "Posterior Pituitary" is derived from the Latin words "posterior" meaning "behind" and "pituitaria" meaning "phlegm". This is due to the gland's location at the back of the pituitary gland and its initial belief to produce phlegm.
Function
The primary function of the Posterior Pituitary is the storage and release of hormones produced by the hypothalamus, specifically vasopressin (also known as antidiuretic hormone) and oxytocin. These hormones are transported to the Posterior Pituitary via the hypophyseal portal system.
Vasopressin
Vasopressin is a hormone that regulates the body's water balance by controlling the reabsorption of water by the kidneys. It also constricts blood vessels, which increases blood pressure.
Oxytocin
Oxytocin is a hormone that plays a crucial role in childbirth and lactation. It stimulates uterine contractions during labor and promotes the release of breast milk.
Related Terms
- Anterior Pituitary: The other part of the pituitary gland, which produces and releases its own hormones.
- Hypothalamus: A region of the brain that produces hormones which are stored and released by the Posterior Pituitary.
- Hypophyseal portal system: A system of blood vessels that transport hormones from the hypothalamus to the Posterior Pituitary.
- Endocrine system: The system of glands that produce hormones, including the pituitary gland.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Posterior pituitary
- Wikipedia's article - Posterior pituitary
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