Which gland is often called the 'master gland' of the endocrine system?

• A. Hypothalamus
• B. Pituitary
• C. Thyroid
• D. Adrenal

Answer: (B)

The pituitary gland is often called the master gland because it releases hormones that regulate several other endocrine glands. Its releasing and stimulating hormones, produced by the anterior lobe, prompt the thyroid to release thyroid hormones (via TSH), the adrenal cortex to secrete cortisol (via ACTH), and the gonads to produce sex hormones (via LH and FSH). It also controls growth and milk production through growth hormone and prolactin. Although the hypothalamus directs the pituitary, the pituitary sits at the center of the endocrine signaling cascade, coordinating the activity of multiple glands.