Which gland regulates growth, metabolism, and sexual development and stimulates other endocrine glands?

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

Answer: (B)

The pituitary gland acts as the master regulator of the endocrine system. It releases hormones that direct growth, metabolism, and sexual development, and it signals other glands to secrete their hormones. Growth hormone drives body growth; thyroid-stimulating hormone boosts thyroid activity to influence metabolism; luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone regulate puberty and gonadal function. Through these hormones, the pituitary stimulates the thyroid, adrenal glands, and gonads, coordinating energy use, development, and reproductive maturation. While the other glands contribute to these processes, they are driven by signals from the pituitary, making it the central controller.