The posterior lobe of the pituitary gland is NOT a true endocrine gland because ________.

A) in adults it is not functional
B) it does not produce hormones, rather it stores hormones from the hypothalamus for release
C) it is strictly part of the neural system and has nothing to do with hormonal release
D) it is unable to function as endocrine tissue because it is part of the nervous system due to its location

Posterior Lobe

Refers to the back portion of an organ or gland, such as the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland in the brain.

True Endocrine Gland

A gland that secretes hormones directly into the bloodstream to regulate various bodily functions, without using a duct.

Hypothalamus

A region of the brain below the thalamus; it coordinates both autonomic nervous system and the activity of the pituitary, controlling body temperature, thirst, hunger, and other homeostatic systems.