Final answer:
True, the hypothalamus secretes Releasing and Inhibiting Factors that regulate the secretion of other tropic hormones in the endocrine system.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement is true: The hypothalamus secretes Releasing and Inhibiting Factors that affect the release of other tropic hormones. The hypothalamus plays a critical role in the endocrine system by controlling the pituitary gland, which is often referred to as the master gland. The hypothalamus produces neurohormones known as releasing factors which travel to the anterior pituitary gland. These releasing factors can either stimulate or inhibit the secretion of anterior pituitary hormones. These hormones, often called tropic hormones, in turn control the functions of other endocrine glands.
The hypothalamus impacts the output of hormones by secreting various releasing and inhibiting hormones that direct the production of tropic hormones by the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland. For example, the hormone corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) stimulates the secretion of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which then acts on the adrenal glands to release cortisol. Negative feedback loops involving the hypothalamus help to regulate hormone levels within the body to maintain homeostasis.