Which gland secretes hormones and is attached to the hypothalamus?

The pituitary gland is intimately connected to the hypothalamus through a structure known as the infundibulum. This connection plays a critical role in the endocrine system, as the hypothalamus produces releasing and inhibiting hormones that travel down this infundibulum to directly influence the secretion of hormones from the pituitary gland. The pituitary gland, often referred to as the "master gland," regulates various bodily functions by controlling other endocrine glands and influencing growth, metabolism, and reproductive processes.

The other options describe glands that do not have this direct connection or relationship with the hypothalamus. The thyroid gland, while crucial for metabolism, is located in the neck and is not connected to the hypothalamus. The adrenal gland responds to signals from the pituitary but does not have a direct physical connection like the pituitary does with the hypothalamus. Lastly, the pancreas, involved in digestion and blood sugar regulation, is part of the digestive system but operates independently from the hypothalamus. Thus, the pituitary gland’s unique attachment to the hypothalamus via the infundibulum supports a vital communication pathway in hormone regulation.