Q.35. - Biology

Question

How would damage to the posterior pituitary gland affect the production and release of ADH and inhibiting hormones?

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

• Reduced ADH secretion by the posterior pituitary gland can result in diabetes insipidus (DI), a condition characterised by polyuria, or frequent urination. 
• This is because those with DI are unable to concentrate their urine, resulting in large volumes of urine being produced daily, potentially leading to severe dehydration. 

Step 1: Introduction

• The hormones are produced by the posterior pituitary. Two different hormones are secreted by the posterior pituitary. 
• The secretory nerve cells that make up this region of the pituitary gland have their origins in the hypothalamus. 
• Oxytocin and the antidiuretic hormone are produced by the hypothalamic secretory nerve cells (ADH). These hormones travel from the tissues through their axons. 

Step 2: Explanation

• The posterior pituitary or the neurohypophysis is a structure that is located at the base of the brain. 
• An injury to the Posterior pituitary gland results in loss of hypothalamic control of Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH) release. 
• This can result in a condition called Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone (SIADH) with low sodium levels ( also called hyponatremia).