Final answer:
The pituitary gland is termed the "master gland" of the endocrine system due to its role in regulating the hormone secretion of other endocrine glands, including the thyroid, adrenal glands, and gonads.
Step-by-step explanation:
The gland known as the "master gland" of the endocrine system is the pituitary gland. This small but crucial gland plays a pivotal role in coordinating the hormone production of other endocrine glands, such as the thyroid gland, parathyroid glands, pineal gland, pancreas, adrenal glands, gonads (testes and ovaries), and thymus gland. The pituitary gland, under the regulation of the hypothalamus, manufactures and releases hormones that influence growth, metabolism, and many other bodily functions.
Function of the Pituitary Gland
Located at the base of the brain and descending from the hypothalamus, the pituitary gland has a variety of functions. One of its key roles is the production of tropic hormones. These hormones have the specific task of stimulating other endocrine glands, thereby having an extensive influence over bodily functions. For instance, the Thyrotropic hormone stimulates the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones, which regulate metabolism, body temperature, and more.
The influence of the pituitary gland extends to the control of growth through the growth hormone, managing pain through endorphins, and regulating fluid levels via various other hormones. Because of these critical functions, it’s easy to see why the pituitary gland earns the title of the master gland of the endocrine system. Please note that the correct option in the final answer is the pituitary gland.