Question

Which of the following hormones is secreted by the anterior pituitary gland and stimulates the thyroid gland to release thyroxine?

• A. Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)
• B. Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)
• C. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
• D. Luteinizing hormone (LH)

Hint:

To identify the correct hormone, match its function with the target organ or process. TSH is specifically associated with the thyroid gland, while other pituitary hormones target different glands or systems.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The anterior pituitary gland secretes several hormones that regulate various physiological processes. Among these, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) specifically targets the thyroid gland, stimulating it to produce and release thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These thyroid hormones regulate metabolism, growth, and development.
The other hormones listed have different functions:
- Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH): Stimulates the adrenal cortex to release corticosteroids, such as cortisol, which regulate stress response and metabolism.
- Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH): Stimulates the development of ovarian follicles in females and spermatogenesis in males.
- Luteinizing hormone (LH): Triggers ovulation and the formation of the corpus luteum in females and stimulates testosterone production in males.
Thus, the hormone secreted by the anterior pituitary gland that stimulates the thyroid gland is thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH).