Which endocrine gland secretes numerous hormones?

• A. Thyroid gland
• B. Adrenal gland
• C. Pituitary gland
• D. Pineal gland

Answer: (C)

The main concept here is that one gland can control many different processes by releasing a variety of hormones. The pituitary gland does just that. Its anterior part releases several hormones—such as those that stimulate the thyroid, adrenal cortex, and gonads, plus growth hormone and prolactin—each affecting different organs or tissues. The posterior part stores and releases vasopressin and oxytocin, produced in the hypothalamus, adding to the range of signals the pituitary can send into the bloodstream. In comparison, the thyroid mainly makes thyroid hormones and calcitonin, the adrenal gland produces a more limited set of hormones, and the pineal gland primarily makes melatonin. Because it releases many different hormones that regulate a wide array of body functions, the pituitary gland is the one that secretes numerous hormones.