The Hypothalamus and Anterior Pituitary (Adenohypophysis) Secrete Protein and Peptide HormonesrWhich Control Gonadal Activity

Gonadal activity is under the control of both the hypothalamus and the anterior pituitary gland (Figure 35-3). The hypothala­mus is a relatively small structure that lies midcentral in the base of the brain. It is divided into halves by the third ventricle and actually forms the ventral and lateral walls of the third ventricle. The hypothalamus has clusters of neurons, collectively called nuclei, which secrete peptide hormones important for con­trolling pituitary activity. As described in more detail later, these peptides move to the pituitary either directly by passage through the axons of neurons or by a vascular portal system. The pitui­tary responds to the hypothalamic peptides to produce hor­mones that are important for the control of the gonads.