The correct option is Both 1 and 2.
Explanation
The hypothalamus regulates the pituitary gland through two distinct anatomical and functional mechanisms: a vascular connection for the anterior pituitary and a neural connection for the posterior pituitary.
- Statement 1 is Correct: The anterior pituitary (adenohypophysis) is regulated by releasing and inhibiting hormones produced by the hypothalamus. These hormones are released into the hypophyseal portal system, a specialized vascular network. They travel through portal veins to reach the anterior pituitary, where they stimulate or inhibit the synthesis and secretion of pituitary hormones.
- Statement 2 is Correct: The posterior pituitary (neurohypophysis) is under direct neural regulation. It contains the axon terminals of neurosecretory cells whose cell bodies are located in the hypothalamus. Hormones such as oxytocin and vasopressin are synthesized in the hypothalamus and transported axonally directly to the posterior pituitary for storage and eventual release.
Key Takeaway: The anterior pituitary is linked to the hypothalamus via the portal blood circulation, whereas the posterior pituitary is connected via direct neural pathways.