The specific, directive signal initiated by a central regulatory center, typically the hypothalamus or pituitary gland, that instructs a peripheral endocrine gland to synthesize and release a precise quantity of a target hormone. This command is delivered via tropic hormones and represents the upstream control element in a neuroendocrine cascade. It dictates the rate and rhythm of the entire endocrine response.
Origin
This term is a conceptual model derived from control systems engineering applied to the field of endocrinology, where the HPA, HPT, and HPG axes function as classic feedback control loops. The “command” component emphasizes the hierarchical nature of endocrine regulation, where central signals override local feedback in many instances.
Mechanism
The command is executed through the pulsatile release of a releasing or stimulating hormone, such as Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) from the hypothalamus, which travels through the portal system to the pituitary. The pituitary then responds by releasing its own tropic hormone, like Luteinizing Hormone (LH), into the systemic circulation, which acts on the target gland to initiate the final hormonal output. The intensity and frequency of these pulses are the critical parameters of the command.
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