Question

Which of the following is known as master gland?

• A. Adrenal glands
• B. Kidneys
• C. Pituitary
• D. Pancreas

Answer 1

The correct option is C

Pituitary

The correct option is C:

Explanation of the correct option:

1. The pituitary gland is the smallest endocrine gland that controls the functions of all other endocrine glands. Hence it is known as the “master gland”.
2. The pituitary gland controls other endocrine hormones by sending signals to other endocrine glands to activate or inhibit their own hormone release.
3. During stress, the anterior pituitary lobe secretes adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) to stimulate the release of cortisol in the adrenal glands. Hence pituitary gland is considered the master gland.
4. It secretes growth hormone (GH), prolactin, Thyroid-stimulating hormone, adrenocorticotrophic hormone, luteinizing hormone, Follicle-stimulating hormone, oxytocin, and vasopressin.

Explanation of the incorrect option:

Option A:

The adrenal gland located on the anterior part of each kidney secretes hormones like cortisol, aldosterone, and androgen from the adrenal cortex and epinephrine and norepinephrine from the adrenal medullae.

Option B:

The kidney is an organ that synthesizes hormones like erythropoietin and renin.

Option D:

The pancreas is both an exocrine gland and the endocrine gland that secretes digestive enzymes through duct and insulin, glucagon directly to the blood.

Final answer: The pituitary is known as the master gland.