Biological Systems MCAT Practice Exam

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Prepare for the Biological Systems MCAT. Study with detailed questions and explanations. Enhance your understanding and boost your confidence for this crucial exam.

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Which hormones are released by the anterior pituitary gland?

Oxytocin and ADH
Insulin and glucagon
FSH, LH, ACTH, TSH, prolactin, growth hormone
Cortisol and aldosterone

The correct answer is: FSH, LH, ACTH, TSH, prolactin, growth hormone

The anterior pituitary gland is a critical structure in the endocrine system responsible for producing and secreting several key hormones that regulate various physiological processes in the body. Among the hormones released by the anterior pituitary are follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), prolactin, and growth hormone. FSH and LH are important for reproductive functions and stimulating the gonads, ACTH stimulates the adrenal cortex to produce cortisol, TSH stimulates the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones, prolactin is primarily involved in milk production in lactating females, and growth hormone plays a crucial role in growth and metabolism. In contrast, other options list hormones that are either produced by different glands or are not released by the anterior pituitary. For example, oxytocin and antidiuretic hormone (ADH) are produced in the hypothalamus and released by the posterior pituitary; insulin and glucagon are hormones produced by the pancreas; and cortisol and aldosterone are produced by the adrenal glands. This distinction clarifies the specific functions of the anterior pituitary in the broader endocrine system.