Which human gland is commonly called the “master gland”?

The pituitary gland is commonly called the human body’s “master gland.”

This small endocrine gland lies at the base of the brain in a bony cavity called the sella turcica. It produces or releases hormones that influence growth, reproduction, thyroid activity, adrenal function and water balance. Its two main parts, the anterior and posterior pituitary, have different developmental origins and functions.

The nickname reflects the pituitary’s broad influence over other endocrine glands, but it is an oversimplification. The hypothalamus controls much of pituitary activity by sending releasing or inhibiting hormones, so the hypothalamus and pituitary operate as a closely connected system.

The pituitary is not the largest endocrine gland, nor does it independently control every hormone pathway. For example, the pancreas, thyroid and adrenal glands each perform important endocrine functions. The pituitary is best understood as a major coordinating gland within the hypothalamic-pituitary system.