The five specialized endocrine cells found within the anterior pituitary produce the stimulatory hormones targeted for specific functions.
Table 3: Specialized Endocrine Cells in the Anterior Pituitary Cell Type | Primary Function |
Somatotrophs | Secrete Growth Hormone (GH) |
Mammotrophs or Lactotrophs | Secrete Prolactin (PRL) |
Thyrotrophs | Secrete Thyrotropin (TSH) |
Gonadotrophs | Secrete Gonadotropins (FSH and LH) |
Corticotrophs | Secrete Adrenocorticotropin Hormone (ACTH) and β-Lipotropin (β-LPH) |