Pituitary: The Master Gland
Pituitary: The Master Gland
The pituitary, a pea-sized gland at the base of the brain, produces a number of hormones. Each of these hormones affects a specific part of the body (a target organ or tissue). Because the pituitary controls the function of most other endocrine glands, it is often called the master gland. | |
Hormone | Target Organ or Tissue |
Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) | Adrenal glands |
Beta-melanocyte–stimulating hormone | Skin |
Endorphins | Brain and immune system |
Enkephalins | Brain |
Follicle-stimulating hormone | Ovaries or testes |
Growth hormone | Muscles and bones |
Luteinizing hormone | Ovaries or testes |
Oxytocin* | Uterus and mammary glands |
Prolactin | Mammary glands |
Thyroid-stimulating hormone | Thyroid gland |
Vasopressin (antidiuretic hormone)* | Kidneys |
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* These hormones are produced in the hypothalamus but are stored in and released from the pituitary. | |