Neurohypophysis

Neurohypophysis

  • Related terms: Neurohypophysis; Posterior lobe

Definition

The posterior pituitary (or neurohypophysis) is a lobe of the gland that is functionally connected to the hypothalamus by the median eminence via a small tube called the pituitary stalk (also called the infundibular stalk or the infundibulum).

The posterior pituitary is not glandular as is the anterior pituitary. Instead, it is largely a collection of axonal projections from the hypothalamus that terminate behind the anterior pituitary, and is also a store for the later release of neurohypophysial hormones.

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