[Campbell Biology P.1057] Hypothalamic releasing and inhibiting hormones reach the anterior p... | Practice Question

Hypothalamic releasing and inhibiting hormones reach the anterior pituitary primarily through which specialized vascular pathway?

  • A: Direct arterial supply
  • B: Lymphatic vessels
  • C: A portal vessel system
  • D: General circulatory system

Explanation

The text explicitly states that hypothalamic releasing and inhibiting hormones are secreted near capillaries which drain into 'portal vessels' that subdivide into a 'second capillary bed within the anterior pituitary', providing direct access.