Which of the following hormones released from the pituitary is actually synthesized in the hypothalamus? 

The correct answer is Anti-diuretic hormone (ADH)

Concept:

• The hypothalamus and the pituitary gland work closely together as part of the endocrine system to regulate numerous bodily functions, including growth, metabolism, and water balance.
• The pituitary gland is divided anatomically into an adenohypophysis and a neurohypophysis.
• Neurohypophysis (pars nervosa) also known as posterior pituitary, stores and releases two hormones called oxytocin and vasopressin, which are synthesised by the hypothalamus and are transported axonally to the neurohypophysis.

Explanation:

• Anti-diuretic hormone (ADH) is a hormone produced by the hypothalamus and stored in the pituitary gland.
• Vasopressin acts mainly at the kidney and stimulates resorption of water and electrolytes by the distal tubules and thereby reduces loss of water through urine (diuresis). Hence, it is also called as anti- diuretic hormone (ADH).
• An impairment affecting synthesis or release of ADH results in a diminished ability of the kidney to conserve water leading to water loss and dehydration. This condition is known as Diabetes Insipidus.

Other Options

Luteinizing hormone (LH):

• LH is synthesized and secreted by the anterior pituitary gland.
• It plays a key role in regulating the reproductive system, including ovulation in females and testosterone production in males.

Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH):

• FSH is also synthesized and secreted by the anterior pituitary gland.
• It is involved in the regulation of reproductive processes, such as the maturation of ovarian follicles in females and spermatogenesis in males.

Adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH):

• ACTH is synthesized and secreted by the anterior pituitary gland.
• It stimulates the adrenal cortex to produce glucocorticoids, such as cortisol, which are vital for stress response and metabolism.