Which gland is responsible for stimulating exocrine glands?

The pituitary gland is recognized as the master gland of the endocrine system, and it plays a pivotal role in regulating various physiological functions, including the stimulation of exocrine glands. It achieves this by secreting specific hormones that influence other glands in the body.

For example, the pituitary gland releases adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which stimulates the adrenal cortex to produce cortisol. It also releases hormones that can affect growth and metabolism, thus indirectly influencing various exocrine activities.

Exocrine glands, like the salivary glands and sweat glands, are stimulated in response to certain hormones secreted by the pituitary. This intricate regulatory role highlights the essential function of the pituitary in the larger context of hormone regulation and gland stimulation in the body.