Which gland is primarily associated with regulating growth via hormones?

• A. Pituitary gland
• B. Pineal gland
• C. Thyroid gland
• D. Adrenal gland

Answer: (A)

Growth is primarily regulated by a hormone from the pituitary gland called growth hormone. The anterior pituitary releases this hormone in response to signals from the hypothalamus, and it drives the growth of bones and muscles, especially in children and teens. Growth hormone can act directly on tissues, and also stimulates the liver to produce IGF-1, which promotes bone and cartilage growth. While other glands influence metabolism and development—thyroid hormones support growth and overall metabolic rate, pineal melatonin mainly regulates circadian rhythms, and adrenal hormones handle stress responses—the gland most closely tied to growth through its hormone is the pituitary.