Which gland is known as the master gland?

Which gland is known as the master gland?

• A. Thyroid
• B. Pancreas
• C. Pituitary gland
• D. Adrenal glands

Answer: (C)

The main idea is that one gland acts as the control center of the endocrine system by directing other glands through hormonal signals. The pituitary gland sits beneath the brain and receives input from the hypothalamus, then releases hormones that tell other glands to produce their hormones. It sends TSH to stimulate the thyroid, ACTH to stimulate the adrenal cortex, and FSH/LH to stimulate the gonads, plus growth hormone and other signals with broad effects. This coordinating role across multiple systems is why the pituitary is known as the master gland. The thyroid, pancreas, and adrenal glands are essential players, but they mainly respond to signals from the pituitary and hypothalamus rather than directing other glands themselves.

The main idea is that one gland acts as the control center of the endocrine system by directing other glands through hormonal signals. The pituitary gland sits beneath the brain and receives input from the hypothalamus, then releases hormones that tell other glands to produce their hormones. It sends TSH to stimulate the thyroid, ACTH to stimulate the adrenal cortex, and FSH/LH to stimulate the gonads, plus growth hormone and other signals with broad effects. This coordinating role across multiple systems is why the pituitary is known as the master gland. The thyroid, pancreas, and adrenal glands are essential players, but they mainly respond to signals from the pituitary and hypothalamus rather than directing other glands themselves.