Human Anatomy (with the Fundamentals of Dynamic and Sports Morphology) - Ivanitsky, M. F. 2008

The Study of Internal Secretion Organs
Pituitary Gland

In terms of its development and Location, the Pituitary Gland is connected to the Hypothalamus of the Diencephalon (see p. 291). It is oval-shaped and weighs approximately 0.5 g. The pituitary gland is housed in the hypophyseal fossa of the sella turcica within the Sphenoid bone, separated from the Base of the Brain by the diaphragma sellae. It consists of an anterior lobe (adenohypophysis) and a posterior lobe (neurohypophysis), which differ in both Structure and function.

The adenohypophysis is composed of cords, or trabeculae, interspersed with layers of loose Connective Tissue. The surface of the trabeculae features Cells (adenocytes) that readily take up stains and are therefore termed chromophilic, whereas the cells located within the interior stain poorly and are termed chromophobic. Some chromophilic cells secrete gonadotropic Hormones, while others produce thyrotropic hormone; the former targets the Gonads, and the latter The Thyroid Gland. In addition, the adenohypophysis produces adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which acts on the adrenal cortex, and somatotropic hormone, or Growth Hormone (a deficiency of which in childhood leads to Pituitary dwarfism, and an excess to gigantism).

The neurohypophysis is composed of pituicytes. It is the site where axons originating from the neurosecretory nuclei of the hypothalamus terminate. These axons transport neurosecretory products from the hypothalamus, which are utilized to synthesize the neurohypophyseal hormones Vasopressin and Oxytocin. Vasopressin constricts Blood Vessels, increases blood pressure, and regulates the reabsorption of Water from primary urine within the renal tubules; it is also known as antidiuretic hormone. Oxytocin stimulates the contraction of smooth Muscle, particularly in the Uterus, Urinary Bladder, and intestines. The pituitary gland is closely linked to the hypothalamus, together forming the integrated hypothalamo-hypophyseal system.



Last update: 08/08/2026

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