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The hypothalamus, located within the brain, consists of neurons that produce hormones - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 6 - 2011 - Paper 1
Question 6
The hypothalamus, located within the brain, consists of neurons that produce hormones. The hormones are transported along the neural axon eventually being emptied in... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The hypothalamus, located within the brain, consists of neurons that produce hormones - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 6 - 2011 - Paper 1
Step 1
Explain how this form of transport compares with that shown by a typical neuron.
Answer
The transport of hormones from the hypothalamus to the anterior pituitary gland occurs via axonal transport, allowing the direct release of hormones into the bloodstream. This is different from typical neuronal communication, which primarily relies on synaptic transmission where neurotransmitters are released into a synapse and bind to receptors on neighboring neurons. In comparison, the hypothalamus uses blood vessels to deliver hormones broadly, while neurons rely on more localized and precise signaling.
Step 2
Explain in what ways the anterior pituitary gland acts as both receptor and effector in this pathway.
Answer
Receptor: The anterior pituitary gland acts as a receptor by absorbing cortico-releasing hormone (CRH) from the blood, detecting hormonal signals from the hypothalamus.
Effector: After receiving the CRH signal, the anterior pituitary gland acts as an effector by secreting adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which then stimulates the adrenal glands to release cortisol, triggering a physiological response (release of glucose).