Endocrinology is defined as the study of how chemical messenger molecules, referred to as hormones, influence physiological processes. By definition, a hormone is a signaling molecule that is released into the bloodstream, where the hormone can then travel to distant target cells and tissues within the body. Along with the nervous system, the hormones of the endocrine system provide an important means by which information travels within the body. Test your basic knowledge of the endocrine system by taking this simple quiz.
(1) Oxytocin is synthesized by and released from the posterior pituitary gland.
(2) Oxytocin is synthesized by the hypothalamus and released from the posterior pituitary gland.
(3) Antidiuretic hormone (ADH; also called vasopressin) is synthesized by and released from the posterior pituitary gland.
(4) Antidiuretic hormone (ADH; also called vasopressin) is synthesized by the hypothalamus and released from the posterior pituitary gland.
(5) These cells are glial cells found within the posterior pituitary gland. They resemble astrocytes and function to provide support to unmyelinated axons whose terminals release oxytocin and vasopressin.