Endocrine function pituitary gland

Connected to the brain by a stalk (Fig. 30-1), the pituitary gland releases at least ten peptide or protein hormones that regulate the activity of other endocrine (hormone-producing) glands in distant parts of the body. The pituitary is composed of several distinct parts the anterior lobe (adenohypophysis), a thin intermediate portion (pars intermedia), and a posterior lobe (neurohypophysis). Each has its own characteristic endocrine functions. 

Thyrotropin-releasing hormone is one of several small peptide hormones secreted by the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland. These are the master" hormones that function to stimulate hormone secretion from other endocrine glands. Thyrotropin stimulates the functioning of the thyroid gland. 

In this method, the repeated dose administration with a design similar to toxicology studies is preferred. Studies of up to four weeks duration need to include function tests for hormone secretion (basal concentrations, stimulation or inhibition), and for hormone contents of endocrine organs and tissues (e.g. hypothalamus, pituitary gland, reproductive organs). In the Endocrine Survey, 5 to 7 days of treatment are mandatory because adaptation and response of hormone-dependent organs to the treatment requires that a steady state be reached. Repeated-dose treatment with at least two doses is also needed for a sufficient... 

The pituitary gland regulates virtually every endocrine gland and is often called the "master gland." It is divided anatomically and functionally into an anterior and a posterior lobe. 

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