hypothalamic-hypophyseal portal system

n. A system of blood vessels connecting capillaries of the hypothalamus and the anterior pituitary (hypophysis) through which hormones travel from the hypothalamus to the pituitary. This system is important in stress reactions as it carries corticotropin-releasing hormone from the hypothalamus to the pituitary, while increasing the release of adrenocorticotropic hormone in the pituitary and bringing about the increased production and release of cortisol and other hormones associated with stress. Also called hypothalamic-pituitary portal system.