INFUNDIBULAR STALK Meaning and
Definition
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The term "infundibular stalk" refers to a narrow connective structure located within the brain. Specifically, it is a tubular tissue that connects the pituitary gland, also known as the hypophysis or master gland, to the hypothalamus. The infundibular stalk acts as a conduit for the transmission of hormones and neural signals between these two important regions of the brain.
Anatomically, the infundibular stalk extends downward from a specific portion of the hypothalamus called the median eminence and terminates in the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland. It is composed of nerve fibers, blood vessels, and supporting tissues.
Functionally, the infundibular stalk plays a crucial role in the regulation of various bodily functions. As a vital link between the hypothalamus and the pituitary gland, it allows for the bidirectional communication necessary for hormone secretion and control. Hormones produced by the hypothalamus, such as thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) and growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH), travel through the infundibular stalk to the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland, where they stimulate the release of specific hormones.
In addition to its endocrine functions, the infundibular stalk also serves as a pathway for neural signals. For instance, it relays information from the hypothalamus to other parts of the brain and spinal cord, contributing to functions like temperature regulation, thirst, hunger, and sleep-wake cycles. Overall, the infundibular stalk serves as a vital conduit for communication and coordination between the hypothalamus and pituitary gland, playing a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis and regulating numerous physiological processes in the body.
Common Misspellings for INFUNDIBULAR STALK
- unfundibular stalk
- jnfundibular stalk
- knfundibular stalk
- onfundibular stalk
- 9nfundibular stalk
- 8nfundibular stalk
- ibfundibular stalk
- imfundibular stalk
- ijfundibular stalk
- ihfundibular stalk
- indundibular stalk
- incundibular stalk
- invundibular stalk
- ingundibular stalk
- intundibular stalk
- inrundibular stalk
- infyndibular stalk
- infhndibular stalk
- infjndibular stalk
- infindibular stalk
Etymology of INFUNDIBULAR STALK
The word "infundibular stalk" is derived from Latin and Greek roots.
The first part, "infundibular", comes from the Latin word "infundibulum", which means a funnel-shaped structure. In anatomy, this term is used to refer to any structure that is shaped like a funnel.
The second part, "stalk", comes from the Old English word "stalca", which means a stem or a slender support. It can also refer to a long and narrow part of an organ or organism.
Therefore, when combined, the words "infundibular stalk" describe a slender structure that is shaped like a funnel. This term is commonly used in medical and anatomical contexts, especially when discussing structures in the brain, such as the infundibular stalk of the pituitary gland.
