The anterior pituitary secretes all but:
a. Antidiuretic hormone
b. Growth hormone
c. Gonadotropins
d. TSH

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the role of the anterior pituitary gland. It is a major endocrine gland that secretes several important hormones involved in growth, metabolism, and reproduction.
2. Step 2: Identify the hormones secreted by the anterior pituitary. These include Growth Hormone (GH), Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH), and Gonadotropins (which include LH and FSH).
3. Step 3: Recognize that Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH) is not secreted by the anterior pituitary. Instead, ADH is produced by the hypothalamus and released by the posterior pituitary.
4. Step 4: Compare the options given: a) Antidiuretic hormone, b) Growth hormone, c) Gonadotropins, d) TSH. Since ADH is not secreted by the anterior pituitary, it is the correct answer to the question.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the anterior pituitary secretes all the listed hormones except Antidiuretic Hormone.

Key Concepts

Anterior Pituitary Hormones

The anterior pituitary gland produces and secretes several key hormones including growth hormone (GH), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), and gonadotropins (LH and FSH). These hormones regulate growth, metabolism, and reproductive functions.

Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH)

Antidiuretic hormone, also known as vasopressin, is produced by the hypothalamus and released by the posterior pituitary. It regulates water balance in the body by controlling water reabsorption in the kidneys, and is not secreted by the anterior pituitary.

Pituitary Gland Anatomy and Function

The pituitary gland has two parts: anterior and posterior. The anterior pituitary synthesizes and releases hormones, while the posterior pituitary stores and releases hormones made by the hypothalamus. Understanding this distinction is key to identifying hormone sources.