Which hormone is specifically produced by the thyroid gland?

The thyroid gland is specifically responsible for producing several hormones, the most notable being thyroxine. Thyroxine (T4) plays a critical role in regulating metabolism, growth, and development in the body. It influences how the body uses energy and affects various physiological processes, such as temperature regulation, heart rate, and protein synthesis.

Other hormones, such as cortisol, insulin, and adrenaline, are produced by different glands: cortisol by the adrenal glands, insulin by the pancreas, and adrenaline (also known as epinephrine) by the adrenal medulla. This differentiation highlights the specialized functions of each endocrine gland in the body and how they contribute to overall health and metabolic regulation. Understanding the specific roles of these hormones helps clarify their impact on various bodily functions and the importance of the thyroid gland in the endocrine system.