In what way are the posterior pituitary and anterior pituitary similar?

• A. Both store hormones produced by the hypothalamus.
• B. Both release hormones directly into the bloodstream.
• C. Both are involved in the production of oxytocin.
• D. Both are directly connected to the hypothalamus by nerve fibers.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the roles of the posterior and anterior pituitary glands. The posterior pituitary stores and releases hormones produced by the hypothalamus, while the anterior pituitary produces its own hormones.
2. Recognize that both the posterior and anterior pituitary glands release hormones directly into the bloodstream, which is a key similarity between them.
3. Identify the connection between the hypothalamus and the pituitary glands. The posterior pituitary is directly connected to the hypothalamus by nerve fibers, whereas the anterior pituitary is connected via blood vessels in the hypophyseal portal system.
4. Note that oxytocin is produced by the hypothalamus and stored in the posterior pituitary, not the anterior pituitary. Therefore, involvement in oxytocin production is not a similarity.
5. Summarize the key similarity: Both the posterior and anterior pituitary glands release hormones directly into the bloodstream, despite differences in hormone production and connection to the hypothalamus.