What is the functional relationship between the hypothalamus and the posterior pituitary gland?

• A. The hypothalamus and posterior pituitary gland independently produce and release their own hormones.
• B. The posterior pituitary gland stores and releases hormones produced by the anterior pituitary gland.
• C. The hypothalamus produces hormones that are stored and released by the posterior pituitary gland.
• D. The posterior pituitary gland produces hormones that regulate the hypothalamus.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the roles of the hypothalamus and the posterior pituitary gland in the endocrine system. The hypothalamus is a region of the brain that links the nervous system to the endocrine system via the pituitary gland.
2. Recognize that the hypothalamus produces specific hormones, namely oxytocin and vasopressin (also known as antidiuretic hormone, ADH), which are crucial for various bodily functions.
3. Learn that these hormones are not released directly into the bloodstream by the hypothalamus. Instead, they are transported down nerve fibers to the posterior pituitary gland.
4. The posterior pituitary gland acts as a storage site for these hormones. It does not produce its own hormones but stores the hormones produced by the hypothalamus.
5. When the body requires these hormones, the posterior pituitary gland releases them into the bloodstream, thereby fulfilling its role in the endocrine system.