Professional
Technical
IVT
median eminence
Pronunciation: MEE-dee-an EM-in-ence
Hypothalamic structure where releasing hormones are secreted into portal vessels that carry them to the anterior pituitary.
Full Definition
The median eminence is a specialized region at the base of the hypothalamus that serves as the interface between the nervous and endocrine systems. It contains the terminals of parvocellular hypothalamic neurons that release hormones into the primary capillary plexus of the hypothalamic-hypophyseal portal system. This structure lacks a blood-brain barrier, allowing free exchange of hormones between the neural tissue and circulation.
Usage
Usage note: Critical structure for hypothalamic-pituitary communication; note absence of blood-brain barrier.
In Context
- "Hormone release from the median eminence was measured using microdialysis." — Experimental methodology paper
- "The median eminence showed inflammatory changes consistent with hypothalamic dysfunction." — Neuropathology report
Also known as
infundibular region
Don't confuse with
infundibulum
tuber cinereum