Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks to identify the endocrine gland responsible for producing and secreting growth hormone (GH).
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
(C) Pituitary gland: The anterior lobe of the pituitary gland, often called the "master gland," secretes several key hormones, including Growth Hormone (somatotropin). GH is essential for growth and development, particularly in childhood and adolescence.
Let's look at the other glands:
(A) Thyroid gland: Secretes hormones that regulate metabolism (thyroxine).
(B) Adrenal gland: Secretes hormones related to stress response (adrenaline) and metabolism (cortisol).
(D) Hypothalamus: Produces releasing and inhibiting hormones that control the pituitary gland, but it does not secrete GH itself.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The pituitary gland secretes growth hormone.