PMID: 11315964Apr 24, 2001Paper

Evidence of direct neural regulation of the anterior hypophysis reproductive functions

Italian Journal of Anatomy and Embryology = Archivio Italiano Di Anatomia Ed Embriologia
G Ju

Abstract

It is generally acknowledged that the anterior hypophysis is not directly regulated by neural elements. Our studies in the past decade, however, have demonstrated otherwise. The anterior pituitary gland has been found to be actually under neural-humoral dual regulation. The present article outlines the main data that have led us to this conclusion. Evidence that is related to direct neural regulation of the reproductive functions of the anterior hypophysis is provided in great detail. Thus, synapses have been demonstrated between the nerve fibers innervating the anterior pituitary gland and the gonadotropes and lactotropes. Furthermore, there is ultrastructural evidence indicating that synaptic activities may induce secretion of the gland cells. Hormone manipulation study shows that following ovariectomy there is a significant increase of nerve fibers in the anterior pituitary gland, which is related to plasma estrogen level.

Related Concepts

Related Feeds

Aphasia

Aphasia affects the ability to process language, including formulation and comprehension of language and speech, as well as the ability to read or write. Here is the latest research on aphasia.