Supraoptic Nucleus
The supraoptic nucleus (SON) of the hypothalamus is a large-celled , neurosecretory nucleus. It is located over the lateral border of the optic tract, whose neurons produce vasopressin that is released into the general circulation from the axon terminals in the supraoptico hypophysial tract. Vasopressin is a peptide hormone or antidiuretic (ADH). The neuron in the nucleus has one long axon that projects to the posterior pituitary gland. The nucleus is situated at the base of the brain, bordering the optic chiasm. In humans, it contains about 3,000 neurons.
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Supraoptic Nucleus
FUNCTIONS OF THE SUPRAOPTİC NUCLEUS
A list of how the supraoptic nucleus (SON) works to transport the antidiuretic hormone (ADH) follows:
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The cell bodies produce vasopressin or ADH.
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The hormones are packaged in large, membrane-bound vesicles in the cell body.
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The vesicles are transported down the axons to the nerve endings.
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The secretory granules are also stored in packets along the axon.
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These packets are called Herring bodies.
SIGNALING OF THE SUPRAOPTIC NUCLEUS
A list of the methods the nerves use to signal to the neurons traveling on the axon follows:
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Each neuron (estimated to be 3,000) has one long axon that projects to the posterior pituitary gland.
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This axon gives rise to about 10,000 neurosecretory nerve terminals.
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The magnocellular neurons are electrically excitable.
REGULATION OF THE SUPRAOPTIC NUCLEUS
A dynamic list of how the hormones produced by the endocrine system interact with cardiovascular structures to regulate the supraoptic nucleus follows:
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The vasopressin (antidiuretic hormone-ADH) is released in response to solute concentration in the blood.
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Decreased blood volume causes its’ release.
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Decreased blood pressure causes it release.
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It causes vasoconstriction that helps elevate blood pressure.
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Oxytocin neurons respond to stimulation of the nipples which results in the letdown of milk.
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Oxytocin responses happen during distention of the birth canal.
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The pathways by which these stimuli reach the neurons are not fully understood.
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