What endocrine gland secretes ACTH?Multiple choice question.adrenal cortexanterior pituitary glandposterior pituitary gland

1. Break Down the Problem

To answer the question, we need to identify which gland produces the hormone adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH).

2. Relevant Concepts

• ACTH: This hormone is responsible for stimulating the adrenal glands to produce cortisol.
• Glands in Question:
  • Adrenal Cortex: Produces cortisol and other hormones but does not secrete ACTH.
  • Anterior Pituitary Gland: Secretes various hormones, including ACTH.
  • Posterior Pituitary Gland: Stores and releases hormones produced by the hypothalamus but does not produce ACTH.

3. Analysis and Detail

Upon examining the functions of each gland regarding hormone secretion:

• The adrenal cortex is involved in hormone production but does not produce ACTH.
• The anterior pituitary gland is responsible for the secretion of ACTH.
• The posterior pituitary gland doesn’t secrete ACTH; instead, it releases hormones like oxytocin and vasopressin.

4. Verify and Summarize

The anterior pituitary gland is the gland that secretes ACTH, as it is directly involved in the regulation of adrenal cortex function through this hormone.

Final Answer

The correct answer is: anterior pituitary gland.