Which gland in the brain is known for controlling other endocrine glands?

The pituitary gland is often referred to as the "master gland" of the endocrine system because it produces and secretes hormones that regulate a variety of bodily functions by controlling other endocrine glands. Located at the base of the brain, it is pivotal in the body's hormone regulation, influencing growth, metabolism, and reproductive processes. The pituitary gland secretes several key hormones, including adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which stimulates the adrenal glands, and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), which stimulates the thyroid gland. This regulatory role is crucial because it helps maintain homeostasis and orchestrates the body's response to changes in the environment or internal state. Understanding the pituitary gland's function is fundamental in studying endocrine system interactions and hormonal pathways in biology.