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Pituitary Gland

Definition

The pituitary gland is a small pea-sized gland located at the base of your brain. It's often referred to as "the master gland" because it controls other glands in your body making it a key player in regulating vital bodily functions and general wellbeing.

Analogy

Consider pituitary gland as a school principal. Just like how a principal oversees all operations within a school including teachers' activities (other glands), curriculum implementation (body functions), student welfare (general well-being), similarly pituitary gland manages other glands and their hormone production ensuring smooth functioning of our bodies.

Related terms

Anterior Pituitary: This part of pituitary gland produces hormones such as growth hormone which regulates growth, metabolism & body composition.

Posterior Pituitary: This part stores and releases hormones (like oxytocin and vasopressin) that are produced in the hypothalamus.

Hypothalamus: A part of the brain that links the nervous system to the endocrine system via the pituitary gland.

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AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.