Aivolisäkeeritteellä

Aivolisäkeeritteellä, which translates to pituitary secretion in English, refers to the hormones released by the pituitary gland. The pituitary gland, a small pea-sized structure located at the base of the brain, plays a crucial role in regulating numerous bodily functions through the secretion of these hormones. It is often referred to as the "master gland" because it controls the activity of many other endocrine glands.

The pituitary gland is divided into two main parts: the anterior pituitary and the posterior pituitary, each producing and releasing different sets of hormones. The anterior pituitary secretes hormones such as growth hormone (GH), which promotes growth and cell reproduction; thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), which stimulates the thyroid gland; adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which stimulates the adrenal cortex; follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), which are involved in reproduction; and prolactin, which stimulates milk production.

The posterior pituitary, on the other hand, releases hormones synthesized in the hypothalamus. These include antidiuretic hormone (ADH), also known as vasopressin, which regulates water balance; and oxytocin, which is involved in childbirth and lactation. The secretion of these hormones is tightly regulated by feedback mechanisms involving the hypothalamus and target organs. Dysregulation of pituitary secretion can lead to a variety of hormonal imbalances and associated health conditions.