The hypothalamus secretes hormones that control which of the following?

• A. The adrenal cortex
• B. The thyroid gland
• C. The pituitary gland
• D. The pancreas

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Begin by understanding the role of the hypothalamus in the endocrine system. The hypothalamus is a crucial brain region that regulates various bodily functions, including the release of hormones.
2. Recognize that the hypothalamus secretes hormones known as releasing and inhibiting hormones. These hormones travel to the pituitary gland, which is located just below the hypothalamus.
3. Learn that the pituitary gland is often referred to as the 'master gland' because it controls the function of other endocrine glands, such as the adrenal cortex, thyroid gland, and pancreas, through the hormones it releases.
4. Understand that the hypothalamus directly influences the pituitary gland by secreting hormones into the hypophyseal portal system, a network of blood vessels that connects the hypothalamus to the pituitary gland.
5. Conclude that the hypothalamus controls the pituitary gland, which in turn regulates other glands like the adrenal cortex, thyroid gland, and pancreas, through the hormones it releases.