Final answer:
The thyroid gland produces T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine), both of which are crucial for regulating the body's metabolic processes. The production of these hormones is regulated by thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) from the anterior pituitary gland.
Step-by-step explanation:
The hormones produced by the thyroid gland are T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine). These hormones play a crucial role in regulating the body’s metabolism, including the basal metabolic rate and the rate of blood glucose level control. T4, also known as tetraiodothyronine, is the primary hormone secreted by the thyroid follicles and contains four atoms of iodine. T3, containing three atoms of iodine, is more potent than T4, and most T4 is converted to T3 in the target tissues. The production of T3 and T4 is regulated by the thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) which is secreted by the anterior pituitary gland. A negative feedback loop involving the thyroid gland, pituitary gland, and hypothalamus maintains the hormonal balance.