21.9: Hormones of the Pituitary Gland
The small, pea-sized pituitary gland is located at the base of the brain. It is crucial in regulating various bodily functions, from growth to reproduction. The gland is divided into the anterior lobe and the posterior lobe. The secretory cell clusters in the pars distalis of the anterior pituitary lobe are controlled by hypothalamic regulators and synthesize six primary hormones.
The most abundantly secreted hormone from the anterior lobe is the growth hormone, which controls overall growth by regulating the production of insulin-like growth factors from the liver, bones, and muscles. Also, it plays a vital role in regulating metabolism by balancing fat and glucose usage for energy generation.
Another group of hormones, tropins, are secreted by the anterior lobe, which controls the secretion of hormones by other endocrine glands. For example, the thyroid-stimulating hormone is a tropin regulating the hormones of the thyroid gland, while the adrenocorticotropic hormone controls cortisol release from the adrenal glands.
The luteinizing hormone, LH, and follicle-stimulating hormone, FSH, in both sexes control the functioning of reproductive organs. These hormones regulate the menstrual cycle in females and testosterone production in males. Lastly, prolactin stimulates breast milk production in lactating mothers.
