The correct option is (c).
Explanation
The pituitary gland, specifically the anterior pituitary (adenohypophysis), acts as a master endocrine gland by secreting tropic hormones that regulate the activity of other endocrine glands in the body.
- Statement 1 is Correct: The anterior pituitary secretes Luteinizing Hormone (LH). In males, LH acts on the Leydig cells (interstitial cells) of the testes to stimulate the synthesis and secretion of androgens, primarily testosterone.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: The anterior pituitary secretes gonadotropins, specifically Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH). In females, FSH stimulates the growth and development of ovarian follicles. As these follicles develop, they secrete estrogen. Therefore, the pituitary stimulates the ovaries to produce estrogen rather than inhibiting them.
- Statement 3 is Correct: The anterior pituitary secretes Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH). TSH acts directly on the thyroid gland to stimulate the synthesis and release of thyroid hormones, specifically thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3).
Key Takeaway: The anterior pituitary regulates reproductive function and metabolism through the secretion of tropic hormones such as LH and FSH (which stimulate gonadal activity) and TSH (which stimulates thyroid activity).