Which statement is true about anterior pituitary secretions?

• A. It is controlled by feedback from the kidneys
• B. Its secretions are controlled by hypothalamic hormones
• C. It does not respond to hormonal signals
• D. It secretes only prolactin

Answer: (B)

The controlling factor for anterior pituitary secretions is hypothalamic hormones delivered to the pituitary through the hypothalamic-pituitary portal system. This arrangement lets the hypothalamus release releasing or inhibiting signals that steadily regulate which pituitary hormones are made and released, and when.

The anterior pituitary makes several hormones, not just prolactin—growth hormone, thyroid-stimulating hormone, adrenocorticotropic hormone, and the gonadotropins (FSH and LH) are all produced there, with prolactin being one of many. Hormone release is modulated by hypothalamic signals and by feedback from target organs, but the initiating control originates with hypothalamic hormones.

So the true statement is that its secretions are controlled by hypothalamic hormones.