Professional
Technical
IVT
magnocellular neurons
Pronunciation: mag-no-SELL-yu-lar
Large hypothalamic neurons that produce and release hormones directly into the circulation via the posterior pituitary.
Full Definition
Magnocellular neurons are large-bodied hypothalamic neurons located in the paraventricular and supraoptic nuclei. These neurons synthesize neurohormones such as oxytocin and antidiuretic hormone (ADH) and transport them via their axons to the posterior pituitary for release into systemic circulation. Their large size reflects their high metabolic activity and extensive hormone production capacity.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguished from parvocellular neurons by size and function; avoid confusion with magnocellular visual pathway.
In Context
- "The magnocellular neurons showed increased Fos expression following osmotic stimulation." — Research paper
- "Damage to magnocellular neurons can result in central diabetes insipidus." — Clinical case report
Also known as
large-cell neurons
neurosecretory neurons
Contrasted with
parvocellular neurons
Don't confuse with
parvocellular neurons
magnocellular pathway