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The hypothalamus produces a polypeptide hormone known as antidiuretic hormone (ADH), which is transported to and released from the posterior pituitary gland. It is composed largely of neurons that are continuous with the hypothalamus. The posterior pituitary is an extension of the hypothalamus. The anterior pituitary is composed of glandular cells that secrete protein hormones. The pituitary gland has two components: anterior and posterior. An increase in blood electrolyte levels results in a neuronal signal being sent from the osmoreceptors in hypothalamic nuclei. The concentration of electrolytes in the blood rises when there is water loss caused by excessive perspiration, inadequate water intake, or low blood volume due to blood loss. The water concentration of the body is monitored by osmoreceptors in the hypothalamus, which detect the concentration of electrolytes in the extracellular fluid. Maintaining a proper water balance in the body is important to avoid dehydration or over-hydration (hyponatremia). Hormonal Regulation of the Excretory System The key regulatory processes that will be examined here are those affecting the excretory system, the reproductive system, metabolism, blood calcium concentrations, growth, and the stress response. Hormones have a wide range of effects and modulate many different body processes. Explain the role of hormones in different diseases.Describe how hormones regulate metabolism.Discuss the role of hormones in the reproductive system.Explain how hormones regulate the excretory system.By the end of this section, you will have completed the following objectives: