Hypophyseal portal system
Hypophyseal Portal System
The Hypophyseal Portal System (pronunciation: hi-pof-i-se-al por-tal sis-tem) is a complex vascular structure in the human body that connects the hypothalamus and the anterior pituitary gland.
Etymology
The term "Hypophyseal" is derived from the Greek word "Hypophysis," which means "undergrowth," referring to the pituitary gland's location at the base of the brain. The term "Portal System" refers to a particular type of blood circulation system where blood flows from one capillary network into another through a vein.
Function
The primary function of the Hypophyseal Portal System is to quickly and efficiently transport and exchange hormones between the hypothalamus and the anterior pituitary gland. This system allows the hypothalamus to control the secretion of hormones from the anterior pituitary gland, which in turn regulates various body functions such as growth, metabolism, and reproduction.
Structure
The Hypophyseal Portal System is composed of two capillary plexuses: the primary capillary plexus located in the median eminence of the hypothalamus, and the secondary capillary plexus located in the anterior pituitary gland. These two plexuses are connected by the hypophyseal portal veins.
Related Terms
- Hypothalamus
- Anterior Pituitary Gland
- Median Eminence
- Hormones
- Capillary Plexus
- Hypophyseal Portal Veins
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Hypophyseal portal system
- Wikipedia's article - Hypophyseal portal system
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