Explain the role of hypothalamus and pituitary as a coordinated unit in maintaining homeostasis?

1. Homeostasis maintains a constant internal body environment, with negative feedback mechanisms playing a crucial role.

2. Excessive hormone secretion triggers inhibiting factors from the hypothalamus, leading to negative feedback that halts pituitary stimulating hormone production.

3. Hormone deficits prompt the release of specific factors, signaling the respective gland to maintain hormonal balance and homeostasis.

4. For example, excess thyroxine secretion halts pituitary TSH production through the inhibition of TRF from the hypothalamus.

5. The hypothalamus controls most endocrine glands indirectly through the pituitary gland, establishing a regulatory axis for hormonal balance and negative feedback.

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