Which hormone is produced in the hypothalamus?

• A. Insulin
• B. Oxytocin
• C. Thyroxine
• D. Cortisol

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the role of the hypothalamus in the endocrine system. The hypothalamus is a region in the brain that regulates various physiological processes, including hormone production. It produces hormones that are either released directly into the bloodstream or sent to the pituitary gland for further processing.
2. Step 2: Review the functions of the listed hormones. Insulin is produced by the pancreas and regulates blood sugar levels. Thyroxine is produced by the thyroid gland and controls metabolism. Cortisol is produced by the adrenal glands and helps manage stress and metabolism. Oxytocin, however, is produced in the hypothalamus and plays a role in social bonding, childbirth, and lactation.
3. Step 3: Recall that oxytocin is synthesized in the hypothalamus and stored in the posterior pituitary gland for release into the bloodstream. This is a key distinction that links oxytocin to the hypothalamus.
4. Step 4: Eliminate the incorrect options based on their production sites. Insulin, thyroxine, and cortisol are produced in organs outside the hypothalamus, making them incorrect answers.
5. Step 5: Conclude that oxytocin is the correct answer because it is produced in the hypothalamus and stored in the posterior pituitary for release.