The hypothalamus is functionally and anatomically connected to the posterior pituitary lobe by a bridge of

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The hypothalamus connects to the posterior pituitary via nerve axons in the hypothalamohypophyseal tract. These axons transport antidiuretic hormone (ADH) and oxytocin, synthesized in hypothalamic neurons, for release. Blood vessels link the anterior pituitary, not posterior, while cartilage and bone are structural, not functional connectors. This axonal bridge distinguishes posterior pituitary control, key to neurohormone secretion in fluid and reproductive regulation.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Human placental lactogen (hPL), from the placenta, prepares breasts for lactation by stimulating mammary growth and shifts maternal metabolism to favor fetal nutrition. It doesn't nourish the placenta or regulate menstruation (absent in pregnancy). 'All' is incorrect. Breast preparation distinguishes hPL's role, vital for postpartum milk production, contrasting with placental or cycle functions.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Endocrine glands secrete hormones, chemical messengers, into the bloodstream for distant target organs, like thyroid releasing thyroxine to regulate metabolism systemically. Duct transport defines exocrine glands (e.g., sweat, sebaceous), not endocrine hormones bypass ducts. Neurotransmitters in synaptic clefts are neural, not glandular, actions (e.g., acetylcholine at synapses). Sebaceous and sweat glands are exocrine, releasing sebum or sweat externally, not hormones internally. Bloodstream delivery distinguishes endocrine function, key to their regulatory role across tissues, unlike localized or external secretions.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The posterior pituitary stores and releases antidiuretic hormone (ADH) and oxytocin, synthesized in the hypothalamus, via neural connections ADH conserves water, oxytocin aids childbirth/lactation. The adrenal cortex produces mineralocorticoids (e.g., aldosterone) and glucocorticoids (e.g., cortisol), not these. The thyroid secretes T3, T4, and calcitonin, unrelated to ADH/oxytocin. The pineal gland releases melatonin for sleep cycles. Posterior pituitary's neurohypophyseal role as a storage/release site distinguishes it, critical for hypothalamic hormone delivery, unlike steroid or metabolic glands.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Hyperthyroidism, excess thyroid hormone (T3/T4), is treated with anti-thyroid drugs, beta blockers, or surgery not synthetic thyroid hormone (e.g., levothyroxine), which treats hypothyroidism by replacing deficient hormone. The question lacks full options, but the answer 'synthetic thyroid hormone' fits as non-treatment for excess states. This distinction clarifies therapeutic goals, reducing T3/T4 versus supplementing, critical for managing thyroid overactivity.