pituitária

The pituitary gland, also known as the hypophysis, is a small, pea-sized endocrine gland located at the base of the brain, beneath the hypothalamus. It is a crucial component of the endocrine system, responsible for producing and secreting a variety of hormones that regulate numerous bodily functions. Despite its small size, the pituitary gland is often referred to as the "master gland" because its hormones control many other endocrine glands, such as the thyroid, adrenals, ovaries, and testes.

The pituitary gland is divided into two main lobes: the anterior pituitary (adenohypophysis) and the posterior pituitary (neurohypophysis). The anterior pituitary produces and releases hormones like growth hormone, which stimulates growth and cell reproduction; thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), which regulates thyroid function; adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which influences the adrenal glands; 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, does not produce its own hormones but stores and releases hormones synthesized by the hypothalamus. These include antidiuretic hormone (ADH), also known as vasopressin, which regulates water balance; and oxytocin, which plays a role in childbirth and social bonding. The hypothalamus and pituitary gland work in close concert, with the hypothalamus controlling the pituitary's activity through neural and hormonal signals. Disruptions in pituitary function can lead to a range of hormonal imbalances and related health conditions.