What hormones are secreted by the pituitary gland?

The hormones secreted by the pituitary gland play vital roles in regulating various bodily functions, including growth, metabolism, and reproduction. The adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) stimulates the adrenal glands to produce cortisol, which is essential for stress response and metabolism. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is critical for reproductive processes, particularly in the development of eggs in ovaries and sperm in testes. Luteinizing hormone (LH) also has key roles in the reproductive system, triggering ovulation and the production of sex hormones.

The other options mention hormones not produced by the pituitary gland. Testosterone and estrogen are primarily synthesized in the gonads (testes and ovaries), insulin and glucagon are hormones produced by the pancreas that regulate blood sugar levels, and thyroid hormones are secreted by the thyroid gland, which influences metabolism and energy expenditure. Understanding the specific functions and origins of these hormones helps clarify why the second choice is indeed the correct one regarding the pituitary gland's secretions.