The HPA axis is a body system that regulates various body processes and includes the hypothalamus, the pituitary gland, and the Multiple choice question.anterior cingulate.adenoids.adrenal glands.amygdalae.

7) The HPA axis is a hormone cascade that enables the body to respond to stress. Which gland is NOT part of the HPA axis?

The system that is responsible for the body's involuntary functions in the:a. Cranium.b. Central Nervous System. c. Peripheral Nervous System. d. Cervical spine.

As you know, the hypothalamus is thebasal part of diencephalon, forebrain(Figure 22.1) and it regulates a widespectrum of body functions. It containsseveral groups of neurosecretory cellscalled nuclei which produce hormones.These hormones regulate the synthesis and secretion of pituitaryhormones. However, the hormones produced by hypothalamus are oftwo types, the releasing hormones (which stimulate secretion of pituitaryhormones) and the inhibiting hormones (which inhibit secretions ofpituitary hormones). For example a hypothalamic hormone calledGonadotrophin releasing hormone (GnRH) stimulates the pituitarysynthesis and release of gonadotrophins. On the other hand, somatostatinfrom the hypothalamus inhibits the release of growth hormone from thepituitary. These hormones originating in the hypothalamic neurons, passthrough axons and are released from their nerve endings. These hormonesreach the pituitary gland through a portal circulatory system and regulatethe functions of the anterior pituitary. The posterior pituitary is underthe direct neural regulation of the hypothalamus (Figure 22.2)

The hypothalamusAis a region in the neck involved in hormone production and secretion.Bplays a major role in maintaining an organism’s stable internal body temperature.

Where are the target cells for hypothalamic releasing hormones located?Multiple ChoiceAnterior pituitary glandThyroid glandPosterior pituitary glandAdrenal cortex