The adenohypophysis and neurohypophysis are both parts of the pituitary gland, which is located at the base of the brain.
The adenohypophysis, also known as the anterior pituitary gland, develops from the same embryonic tissue as the roof of the mouth. The adenohypophysis secretes hormones that regulate various bodily functions, including growth, reproduction, and metabolism. These hormones are controlled by releasing hormones produced by the hypothalamus, which is located just above the pituitary gland in the brain.
The neurohypophysis, also known as the posterior pituitary gland, develops from a downgrowth of the brain. It is composed of nerve fibers and glial cells that originate in the hypothalamus. The neurohypophysis does not produce hormones, but rather stores and releases two hormones produced by the hypothalamus: oxytocin and vasopressin (also known as antidiuretic hormone). These hormones regulate various functions, including labor and delivery, lactation, and water balance.