The hypothalamus, a region of the brain, is involved with maintenance of homeostasis in a number of ways. One way is its control of much of the endocrine system through the pituitary gland. The posterior pituitary develops in the embryo from the hypothalamus and the two structures are connected by neurons. The hypothalamus manufactures two hormones, ADH and oxytocin, which are stored in and released from the posterior pituitary. ADH acts on the kidneys to increase reabsorption of water. Oxytocin stimulates uterine contractions and release of milk.