The adenohypophysis is the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland — also known as the anterior pituitary. It is made of glandular tissue and plays a central role in regulating hormones that control growth, metabolism, reproduction, and stress.
🏗️ Structure of the Pituitary Gland
The pituitary gland (also called the hypophysis) is a pea-sized gland located at the base of the brain, beneath the hypothalamus. It has two major parts:
| Lobe | Alternate Name | Tissue Type | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adenohypophysis | Anterior pituitary | Glandular (epithelial) | Produces and secretes hormones |
| Neurohypophysis | Posterior pituitary | Neural tissue | Stores and releases hypothalamic hormones |
💡 What Does the Adenohypophysis Do?
The adenohypophysis synthesizes and releases hormones in response to signals from the hypothalamus, which are delivered via the hypophyseal portal system.
🧬 Hormones Secreted by the Adenohypophysis:
| Hormone | Target Tissue/Organ | Primary Function |
|---|---|---|
| ACTH (Adrenocorticotropic hormone) | Adrenal cortex | Stimulates cortisol production (stress hormone) |
| TSH (Thyroid-stimulating hormone) | Thyroid gland | Stimulates thyroid hormone release (metabolism) |
| LH (Luteinizing hormone) | Ovaries/Testes | Triggers ovulation and testosterone production |
| FSH (Follicle-stimulating hormone) | Ovaries/Testes | Stimulates egg/sperm development |
| GH (Growth hormone) | Bones, muscles | Stimulates growth and cell reproduction |
| Prolactin | Mammary glands | Stimulates milk production |
📍 Regulated By:
- GnRH, TRH, CRH, GHRH, dopamine, etc., all secreted by the hypothalamus via the hypophyseal portal system.
🧠 Summary:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Name | Adenohypophysis (Anterior Pituitary) |
| Location | Front lobe of the pituitary gland |
| Tissue type | Glandular (epithelial origin) |
| Function | Produces and secretes six major hormones |
| Controlled by | Hypothalamic hormones via the portal system |