posterior pituitary gland
Definition
Noun: - An endocrine gland, part of the pituitary: The posterior pituitary gland is the rear lobe of the pituitary gland. It is not a true gland that manufactures hormones itself. Instead, it stores and releases two important hormones produced by the hypothalamus: oxytocin and vasopressin (antidiuretic hormone).
Usage
The term "posterior pituitary gland" is used in medical, biological, and anatomical contexts to specify this distinct part of the pituitary system. - The posterior pituitary gland releases hormones directly into the bloodstream. - Damage to the posterior pituitary gland can disrupt water balance in the body.
Advanced Usage
- Neurohypophysis: This is the formal anatomical synonym for the posterior pituitary gland, emphasizing its neural origin and connection to the hypothalamus.
- The neurohypophysis, or posterior pituitary, is an extension of the brain.
Variants and Related Words
- Posterior pituitary: A common shortened form.
- Pars nervosa: Another technical term for the neural part of the posterior lobe.
- Pituitary gland, Hypophysis: The master gland of which the posterior pituitary is a part.
- Anterior pituitary gland: The front lobe of the pituitary, which contrasts with the posterior lobe as it synthesizes its own hormones.
Synonyms
- Neurohypophysis (n): The primary technical synonym.
- Pars nervosa (n): A specific anatomical term for the neural tissue.
Related Phrases
- Posterior lobe of the pituitary: A descriptive phrase equivalent to the target term.
- Storage and release site for hypothalamic hormones: A functional description of the posterior pituitary gland's role.
Noun
-
the posterior lobe of the pituitary body; primarily glandular in nature
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