Endocrine System Exam Questions Related

Review Endocrine System Exam Questions related questions and content

Target cells for hypothalamic releasing hormones are in the

  • A. thyroid
  • B. hypothalamus
  • C. anterior pituitary
  • D. posterior pituitary
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: anterior pituitary. Hypothalamic releasing hormones target cells in the anterior pituitary to stimulate the release of specific pituitary hormones. The hypothalamus produces releasing hormones that travel through the hypophyseal portal system and bind to receptors on cells in the anterior pituitary, triggering the release of hormones such as ACTH, TSH, LH, FSH, and GH. This interaction between the hypothalamus and anterior pituitary forms the hypothalamic-pituitary axis, regulating various physiological processes. Choices A (thyroid) and D (posterior pituitary) are incorrect as they are not the primary targets of hypothalamic releasing hormones. Choice B (hypothalamus) is also incorrect as releasing hormones do not target cells within the hypothalamus itself, but rather the anterior pituitary.