Neuroanatomy of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis

The hypothalamic-pituitary axis is a crucial part of the endocrine system that helps regulate many body functions. The hypothalamus, a small brain region, controls the pituitary gland, often called the "master gland." It sends signals (hormones) to the pituitary, which then releases its own hormones to control other glands, such as the thyroid or adrenal glands. This axis helps manage processes like stress response, growth, reproduction, and metabolism, ensuring that the body maintains balance and responds appropriately to changes in the environment.