Which hormone is secreted by the pituitary gland?

• A. Oxytocin
• B. Cortisol
• C. Thyroxine
• D. Insulin

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the location and function of the pituitary gland in the human body. The pituitary gland is a small, pea-sized gland located at the base of the brain, often referred to as the 'master gland' because it regulates various physiological processes by releasing hormones.
2. Understand the role of each hormone listed in the options: Oxytocin, Cortisol, Thyroxine, and Insulin. Oxytocin is involved in childbirth and lactation, Cortisol is a stress hormone, Thyroxine regulates metabolism, and Insulin controls blood glucose levels.
3. Determine which of these hormones are secreted by the pituitary gland. The pituitary gland secretes hormones such as Oxytocin, which is involved in uterine contractions during childbirth and milk ejection during breastfeeding.
4. Recognize that Cortisol is secreted by the adrenal glands, Thyroxine by the thyroid gland, and Insulin by the pancreas, which helps in eliminating these options as being secreted by the pituitary gland.
5. Conclude that Oxytocin is the hormone secreted by the pituitary gland, based on the understanding of the gland's function and the origin of each hormone listed.