Which of the following statements about the pituitary gland is/are incorrect?

Options

A. The pituitary lies inferior to the hypothalamus
B. Growth hormone and prolactin are secreted by the anterior pituitary
C. The anterior pituitary and posterior pituitary communicate with each other
D. Axons run between the hypothalamus and the posterior pituitary.

Explanation

To determine which statements about the pituitary gland are incorrect, we will analyze each option step by step.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Evaluate Option 1**: "The pituitary lies inferior to the hypothalamus."
- The hypothalamus is located in the forebrain, and the pituitary gland is indeed situated below (inferior to) the hypothalamus.
- **Conclusion**: This statement is **correct**.

2. **Evaluate Option 2**: "Growth hormone and prolactin are secreted by the anterior pituitary."
- The anterior pituitary is known to secrete several hormones, including growth hormone (GH) and prolactin (PRL).
- **Conclusion**: This statement is **correct**.

3. **Evaluate Option 3**: "The anterior pituitary and posterior pituitary communicate with each other."
- The anterior and posterior pituitary glands do not directly communicate with each other. Instead, they communicate with the hypothalamus. The anterior pituitary is linked to the hypothalamus through portal circulation, while the posterior pituitary is connected via the axons of hypothalamic neurons.
- **Conclusion**: This statement is **incorrect**.

4. **Evaluate Option 4**: "Axon runs between the hypothalamus and the posterior pituitary."
- The axons of the hypothalamic neurons extend down to the posterior pituitary, allowing for the release of hormones produced in the hypothalamus.
- **Conclusion**: This statement is **correct**.

### Final Conclusion:
- The only incorrect statement is **Option 3**: "The anterior pituitary and posterior pituitary communicate with each other."