Question

What is the function of the Hypothalamus and Pituitary gland. Describe how these glands change with age and effects on the body.

Answer 1

Functions of hypothalamus:-

Hypothalamus has several functions. They are as below

• Endocrine function: it produces several hormones that controls other endocrine glands and also produces hormones that are stored in posterior pituitary. Hormones released by hypothalamus are
  • Growth hormone releasing hormone
  • Gonadotropin releasing hormone
  • Corticotropin releasing hormone
  • Oxytocin
  • Vasopressin
  • Dopamine
  • Somatostatin
• Homeostasis
  • Circadian rhythm
  • Food intake/ metabolism
  • Fluid and electrolyte balance
  • Temperature regulation
• Limbic function
  • Memory and emotion
• Autonomic control

Function of pituitary gland:-

Pituitary gland is divided into anterior, intermediate and posterior lobes.

Pituitary gland also called as Master gland because secretions of this gland regulates other endocrine glands

Anterior pituitary:-

Synthesizes and secretes the following hormones

• Growth hormone
• Luteinizing hormone
• Follicular stimulating hormone
• Adrenocorticotropic hormone
• Thyroid stimulating hormone
• Prolactin

Intermediate lobe:-

Synthesizes and secretes melanocyte stimulating hormone.

Posterior pituitary:- stores and secretes the following hormones

• Oxytocin
• Vasopressin

Changes in the hypothalamus and pituitary gland with age and effect on the body:-

Hypothalamus is located in the brain. It controls the several glands with its secretions. Along with the age hypothalamus secretions remains same, but the response by endocrine organs can change.

Pituitary gland increases in size to the maximum at middle age, there after it becomes smaller. Along with the age secretion of pituitary gradually decreases and it's affects the body mechanisms. Some of examples are

• Reduces growth hormone affects the muscle mass, thus reduces muscle mass in elderly.
• Decreased LH and FSH causes menopause in elderly female.