| ACTH (Adrenocorticotropic Hormone) | Stimulates the adrenal cortex to produce cortisol and other glucocorticoids, vital for stress response, metabolism, and immune function. |
| ADH (Antidiuretic Hormone) | Also known as vasopressin, directed towards the kidneys to help the body retain water and regulate urine concentration. |
| Anterior Pituitary | The front part of the pituitary gland that releases hormones regulated by the hypothalamus, influencing growth, metabolism, and reproductive functions. |
| FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone) | A gonadotropin acting on the ovaries and testicles to influence sex hormone production and gamete production. |
| GH (Growth Hormone) | Affects bone and muscle, promoting growth and development. |
| Hypothalamus | A vital brain area located at the base of the brain, controlling many autonomic functions and influencing the pituitary gland's activity. |
| LH (Luteinizing Hormone) | A gonadotropin that acts on the ovaries and testicles, involved in the regulation of the menstrual cycle and ovulation in females, and testosterone production in males. |
| MSH (Melanocyte-Stimulating Hormone) | Involved in skin pigmentation by influencing melanocytes in the skin. |
| Neurosecretory Cells | Specialized neurons in the hypothalamus that produce hormones affecting the pituitary gland. |
| Optic Chiasm | A structure where the optic nerves partially cross over, located in front of the hypothalamus, responsible for visual coordination. |
| Oxytocin | A hormone targeting the breasts and uterus, stimulating milk ejection and inducing contractions during childbirth, released by the posterior pituitary. |
| Pituitary Gland | Known as the "master gland," located below the hypothalamus, divided into the anterior and posterior pituitary, secreting various hormones that regulate bodily functions. |
| Posterior Pituitary | The back part of the pituitary gland that stores and releases hormones produced by the hypothalamus, such as oxytocin and vasopressin. |
| T3 (Triiodothyronine) | A thyroid hormone produced by the thyroid gland, involved in regulating metabolism and energy generation. |
| T4 (Thyroxine) | Another thyroid hormone produced by the thyroid gland, crucial for metabolism and energy production. |
| TRH (Thyrotropin-Releasing Hormone) | Produced by the hypothalamus, it stimulates the pituitary gland to secrete TSH. |
| TSH (Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone) | Secreted by the pituitary gland, it stimulates the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones (T3 and T4). |
| Vascular Supply | The arteries and veins providing oxygenated blood to and carrying deoxygenated blood away from the pituitary gland, ensuring it receives nutrients and oxygen. |
