Which gland acts as a master regulator of other endocrine glands?

The pituitary gland is often referred to as the "master gland" of the endocrine system because it plays a central role in regulating other endocrine glands. It achieves this by releasing hormones that stimulate or inhibit the activity of glands such as the thyroid, adrenal glands, and gonads. The pituitary itself is influenced by signals from the hypothalamus, which links the nervous system to the endocrine system.

In addition to controlling other glands, the pituitary gland secretes several hormones that have direct effects on bodily functions. For example, it releases growth hormone (GH), which influences growth and metabolism, and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which stimulates the adrenal cortex to produce cortisol.

This regulatory capacity is what distinguishes the pituitary gland as the central hub of the endocrine system, coordinating the overall hormonal balance in the body.