How does the anterior pituitary gland regulate the secretion of thyroid hormones?

• A. By directly releasing thyroxine (T4)
• B. By producing calcitonin
• C. By releasing thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)
• D. By inhibiting the release of thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH)

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of the anterior pituitary gland in the endocrine system. It is responsible for producing and releasing hormones that regulate various bodily functions.
2. Identify the hormones involved in thyroid regulation. The thyroid gland primarily secretes thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which are crucial for metabolism.
3. Recognize the role of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). TSH is produced by the anterior pituitary gland and stimulates the thyroid gland to produce and release thyroid hormones (T4 and T3).
4. Learn about the feedback mechanism involving thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH). TRH is released by the hypothalamus and stimulates the anterior pituitary to release TSH.
5. Clarify the incorrect options: The anterior pituitary does not directly release thyroxine (T4) or produce calcitonin. It also does not inhibit TRH release; rather, TRH stimulates TSH release.