What is the pituitary gland responsible for?

Even those people who have not studied biology well know about the presence of the pituitary gland in the head. At first glance, it does not seem so important, but metabolism will depend on it. This organ consists of two parts - the posterior and anterior lobes.

What functions does the pituitary gland perform?

The anterior lobe is significantly larger in size. As a result, it performs more functions. In particular, it is responsible for the production of protein hormones. Which ones?

1. Prolactin. Necessary for the production of milk in the glands.
2. Thyroid-stimulating hormone. Needed for normal functioning of the thyroid gland.
3. Somatotropin. Required for body growth. Its deficiency leads to a slowdown in development.
4. Gonadotropes. Necessary for the synthesis of sex hormones.

And this is not a complete list of produced substances. The posterior lobe is called the neurohypophysis. Its main task is the synthesis of oxytocin, as well as vasopressin. The first is responsible for the formation of the muscles of the intestines, bladder and some other internal organs. It is produced in large quantities in women during pregnancy. The second hormone is necessary in order to retain moisture in the body, it prevents dehydration. A sufficient amount of this substance promotes the rapid removal of sodium from the kidneys.

What can you say in conclusion? 

Medicine cannot yet give exact answers as to why exactly the pituitary gland is needed. What is clear is that it is responsible for the production of certain chemicals. But it is unknown in what volumes of proteins are produced by this gland. Everything here is individual, since malfunctions of the pituitary gland can lead to an excess of hormones, which leads to diabetes, gigantism, and mental problems.