✰Hormone Synthesis and Release: Neurons in the hypothalamus synthesize and release hormones, such as oxytocin and vasopressin, which are transported to the posterior pituitary gland.

✰Portal Circulation: Other neurosecretory cells in the hypothalamus release hormones into the portal capillaries. These hormones are then transported directly to the endocrine cells of the anterior pituitary gland.

✰Control of Endocrine Gland Function: Hormones released from the anterior pituitary gland regulate the function of various endocrine glands, such as the thyroid, adrenal glands, and gonads, by stimulating or inhibiting hormone secretion.

✰Feedback Mechanisms: The hypothalamus and pituitary gland respond to feedback from target organs and circulating hormone levels to maintain homeostasis in the endocrine system.

Review: Homeostasis (Physiology)