The posterior pituitary

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The posterior pituitary contains the axon terminals of both oxytocin and vasopressin neurosecretory cells, but specifically contains the axon terminals of vasopressin (also known as antidiuretic hormone) neurosecretory cells. The hormones are synthesized in the cell bodies located in the hypothalamus, and are transported down the axons to be released into the bloodstream from the posterior pituitary. The posterior pituitary does not release hormones into the hypothalamic-pituitary portal system, which is only involved in the regulation of the anterior pituitary. The release of hormones from the posterior pituitary is regulated by action potentials originating in the hypothalamus, rather than releasing factors.

The Posterior Pituitary