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The Endocrine System is comprised of multiple glands located throughout the body. Their primary responsibility is to regulate organ and tissue function by depositing hormone directly into the blood stream. The study of this complex system is called endocrinology.
Acting as an integral member of this system is the pituitary gland. It is located at the base of the brain protected by the sella tursica (sphenoid bone). It is approximately the size of a pea, weighing in at about .5 grams, most of which is water. The pituitary's secretions have a direct impact on the thyroid, adrenals, ovaries, testes, kidneys and breasts. Some say that the extent of its influence extends further, for example to the intestines, uterus, stomach and spleen. These secretions originate from one of two areas, the posterior or anterior lobe.
The pituitary gland receives most of its orders from the hypothalamus via nerve fibers and capillaries. The hypothalamus monitors and measures levels of hormone and electrolytes as well as pain and emotion. The ultimate goal being a healthy body, the hypothalamus signals the pituitary to secrete hormone as necessary.
While the pituitary secretes seven different kinds of hormones, the most commonly mentioned is growth hormone (GH), also known as HGH, human growth hormone. HGH increases production of cells related to growth and reproduction. As a result it is responsible for stimulating muscle growth, protein synthesis and fat burning. In addition, it increases insulin production by raising blood sugar levels. The extent of growth hormone's influence does not stop there. It influences the immune system, therefore assisting in the battle against disease and can be effective in shortening the time in which wounds heal. The amount of HGH released by the pituitary is directly related to age. As the body ages, less and less is produced therefore slowing down certain functions of the body. Many people stop producing human growth hormone by the time they are 50 years old.
In addition to HGH, the anterior pituitary releases six other hormones: adrenal corticotrophic hormone (ACTH), to stimulate the production of cortisol by the adrenals. Thyroid stimulating hormone, (TSH) which signals the release of thyroxine and triiodothyronine in response to severe cold and or emotional trauma. Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) helps in the production of sperm for men, estrogen for women and egg development. Luteinizing hormone (LH) aids in the creation of testosterone in men, follicular growth in women, as well as ovulation, progesterone formation and estrogen production. Melanocyte stimulating hormone is used to control skin pigmentation, some believe in the possibility of it aiding in the retention of visual stimulation and memory. Lastly, prolactin which only really plays a role during and immediately after pregnancy to stimulate breast development and lactation.
The posterior pituitary is also responsible for secreting hormones. They are: Oxytocin, which is only stored in the pituitary, as it is produced by the hypothalamus. Oxytocin stimulates labor and lactation in women. ADH, also produced by the hypothalamus, controls the absorptive properties of the renal tubules, making the kidneys able to conserve water and electrolytes. ADH is released in its largest quantities as a response to blood loss.
The pituitary gland is truly remarkable in its impact on bodily function, affecting some aspect of nearly every system of the body. With further study it is bound to be revealed that its function is even farther reaching in its influence than at first imagined.
