Which gland is referred to as the "master gland" of the endocrine system?

The pituitary gland is referred to as the "master gland" of the endocrine system because it plays a central role in regulating various hormonal functions throughout the body. It is located at the base of the brain and secretes hormones that control other endocrine glands, such as the thyroid, adrenals, and gonads. For instance, it produces adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which stimulates the adrenal glands; thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), which influences the thyroid gland; and luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which regulate reproductive processes.

In addition to these regulatory functions, the pituitary gland itself is influenced by the hypothalamus, which monitors the body's needs and sends signals to the pituitary, thus integrating the endocrine response with the nervous system. This interconnectedness further emphasizes the pituitary gland's pivotal role in maintaining homeostasis and coordinating the body's overall hormonal balance.