What gland is responsible for producing thyroid hormones?

The thyroid gland is the primary gland responsible for producing thyroid hormones, which are crucial for regulating metabolism, growth, and development in the body. These hormones, primarily thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), are synthesized and secreted by the follicular cells of the thyroid gland in response to signals from the pituitary gland in the form of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). This feedback loop helps maintain metabolic homeostasis.

Other glands play important roles in the endocrine system, but they are not responsible for producing thyroid hormones. The adrenal gland primarily produces hormones related to stress response, metabolism, and water balance. The pancreas has a fundamental role in regulating blood sugar levels through insulin and glucagon secretion. The pituitary gland acts as a master regulator that controls various endocrine functions but relies on signals to stimulate hormone production in other glands, including the thyroid. Thus, the thyroid gland is distinctly identified as the source of thyroid hormones, leading to its significance in endocrine physiology.