The posterior pituitary gland secretes oxytocin into the bloodstream.
Oxytocin Production and Secretion Explained
Oxytocin is a hormone crucial for various physiological processes. While the hypothalamus produces oxytocin, it is the posterior pituitary gland that secretes it. This secretion is triggered by the electrical activity of neurons located in the hypothalamus. When these neurons are activated, oxytocin is released into the bloodstream.
Overview
Here's a breakdown of oxytocin production and secretion:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Hormone | Oxytocin |
| Production Site | Hypothalamus |
| Secretion Site | Posterior Pituitary Gland |
| Trigger | Electrical activity of neurons in the hypothalamus |
| Mechanism | Hypothalamic neurons activate, leading to oxytocin release into the bloodstream via the posterior pituitary. |
