Multiple Choice
Which hormone, secreted by the anterior pituitary gland, is primarily responsible for milk production (lactation) in the human body?
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16. The Endocrine System
The Hypothalamus and Pituitary Gland
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Which hormone, primarily secreted by the anterior pituitary gland, is responsible for stimulating milk production in the mammary glands?
A
Prolactin (PRL)
B
Antidiuretic hormone (ADH)
C
Oxytocin
D
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the hormones listed and their primary functions: Antidiuretic hormone (ADH) regulates water balance, Oxytocin stimulates milk ejection and uterine contractions, Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) regulates reproductive processes, and Prolactin (PRL) is involved in milk production.
Recall that the anterior pituitary gland secretes several hormones, including Prolactin, FSH, and others, but not ADH or Oxytocin, which are secreted by the posterior pituitary.
Understand that milk production (lactation) in the mammary glands is primarily stimulated by Prolactin, which promotes the synthesis of milk components.
Differentiate between milk production and milk ejection: Prolactin stimulates production, while Oxytocin causes milk to be ejected from the glands.
Conclude that the hormone responsible for stimulating milk production, secreted by the anterior pituitary, is Prolactin (PRL).
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