Final answer:
The hypothalamus controls the release of hormones from the anterior pituitary through the synthesis and release of releasing factors. The anterior pituitary hormones have various functions such as growth, reproduction, and regulation of other glands.
Step-by-step explanation:
The hypothalamus controls the release of hormones from the anterior pituitary through the synthesis and release of neurohormones called releasing factors. These releasing factors travel through the infundibulum directly to the anterior part of the pituitary gland. The releasing factors either stimulate or inhibit the secretion of anterior pituitary hormones, which in turn control other glands of the endocrine system.
The general function of the anterior pituitary hormones are as follows:
- Growth hormone (GH): Stimulates growth and cell reproduction.
- Prolactin (PRL): Stimulates milk production in females.
- Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH): Stimulates the thyroid gland to secrete thyroid hormones.
- Melanin-stimulating hormone (MSH): Regulates the production and release of melanin, which affects skin pigmentation.
- Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH): Stimulates the adrenal cortex to secrete hormones that regulate stress response and metabolism.
- Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing hormone (LH): Regulate the growth, development, and functioning of the reproductive system.