Answer:
The adenohypophysis, also known as the anterior pituitary gland, is a glandular tissue located at the base of the brain that produces and secretes several hormones that regulate various physiological functions in the body. It is divided into three main parts, each consisting of different cell types:
1. Pars Distalis: The Pars Distalis is the largest and most anterior portion of the adenohypophysis. It contains five types of cells:
Somatotrophs: These cells produce and secrete growth hormone (GH), which stimulates cell growth and division in various tissues of the body.
Lactotrophs: These cells produce and secrete prolactin (PRL), which stimulates milk production in the mammary glands of females.
Corticotrophs: These cells produce and secrete adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which stimulates the adrenal cortex to produce and secrete cortisol, a stress hormone.
Thyrotrophs: These cells produce and secrete thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), which stimulates the thyroid gland to produce and secrete thyroid hormones.
Gonadotrophs: These cells produce and secrete follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), which stimulate the gonads (ovaries and testes) to produce sex hormones.
2. Pars Intermedia: The Pars Intermedia is a thin strip of tissue located between the Pars Distalis and the Pars Tuberalis. It contains one type of cell:
Melanotrophs: These cells produce and secrete melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH), which stimulates the production of melanin, a pigment that gives color to the skin and hair.
3. Pars Tuberalis: The Pars Tuberalis is a thin layer of cells that wraps around the infundibulum, a stalk-like structure that connects the hypothalamus to the pituitary gland. It contains one type of cell:
Gonadotrophs: These cells produce and secrete follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), which regulate the reproductive functions of the gonads.