Appropriate regulation of reproductive processes are dependent upon the integrity of pituitary function. In the selected review, researchers evaluate the evidence that certain environmental compounds exert their effect on reproductive function via a direct action on the pituitary gland. They also discuss examples of changes in pituitary hormone secretion that occur in response to changes in neuronal or gonadal control of the pituitary. A limited number of studies suggest that measures of pituitary hormone secretion provide an early and sensitive measure of a compounds potential effects on the reproductive system. However, the most striking aspect of the area is the sparse and inconsistent information describing pitiutary function following exposure to environmental pollutants.