How does the hypothalamus regulate the release of hormones from the anterior pituitary gland?

• A. By directly releasing hormones into the bloodstream
• B. By altering the blood pressure in the pituitary gland
• C. By sending nerve impulses to the anterior pituitary
• D. By releasing regulatory hormones into the hypophyseal portal system

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of the hypothalamus: The hypothalamus is a crucial brain region that links the nervous system to the endocrine system via the pituitary gland.
2. Identify the connection between the hypothalamus and the anterior pituitary: The hypothalamus regulates the anterior pituitary gland through the release of specific hormones.
3. Learn about the hypophyseal portal system: This is a network of blood vessels that directly connects the hypothalamus to the anterior pituitary, allowing hormones to be transported efficiently.
4. Recognize the types of hormones involved: The hypothalamus releases regulatory hormones, such as releasing hormones and inhibiting hormones, into the hypophyseal portal system.
5. Understand the effect of these hormones: Once in the anterior pituitary, these regulatory hormones control the secretion of various hormones from the anterior pituitary, influencing numerous physiological processes.