Hypothalamo-hypophysial blood flow: a novel control mechanism in pituitary function?

The flow rate of portal plasma was measured during hypothalamo-hypophysial portal sampling in the rat using a modified Worthington-Fink technique. In rats rendered hypothyroid with propylthiouracil, there was a significant 140% increase in portal plasma flow. Median eminence stimulation also increased portal plasma flow by 41%. Orchidectomy and adrenalectomy had no effects on plasma flow. Modification of flow rate in the hypothalamo-hypophysial vascular bed may represent a further mechanism involved in the control of pituitary function.