MCAT Biology Question 73: Answer and Explanation

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Test Information

Question: 73

13. Oxytocin and antidiuretic hormone are:

  • A. peptide hormones produced and released by the pituitary.
  • B. steroid hormones produced and released by the pituitary.
  • C. peptide hormones produced by the hypothalamus and released by the pituitary.
  • D. steroid hormones produced by the hypothalamus and released by the pituitary.

Correct Answer: C

Explanation:

Both oxytocin and vasopressin (another name for antidiuretic hormone) end with the suffix –in; this should hint that they are peptide or amino acid-derivative hormones. These two hormones are both synthesized by the hypothalamus, but released by the posterior pituitary. Remember that the posterior pituitary does not actually synthesize any hormones itself; rather, it contains the axons of cells originating in the hypothalamus and is the site of release for these hormones.

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