ROLE in enabling Mammals and Birds, USUALLY females, to produce milk.It is secreted from the pituitary gland in response to eating, mating, estrogen treatment, ovulation, and nursing.Prolactin plays an essential role in metabolism, regulation of the immune system, and PANCREATIC development. The pituitary gland is called the master gland of the body because it regulates the activity of the endocrine glands.Endocrine glands (Ductless glands) are the glands that secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream without any duct.Whereas Exocrine glands secrete hormones into ducts that carry them to the required destination.Some Important Hormones related to the pituitary gland:-HormoneTargetFunctionGH(Growth Hormone)All cellsstimulates growth, cell reproduction, and cell regenerationLH & FSH (Luteinising Hormone) andFollicle-stimulating Hormone) Ovaries (women)TESTES (men) Controls reproductive functioning and sexual characteristics.Stimulates the ovaries(in females) to produce oestrogen and progesteroneStimulates the testes(in males) to produce testosterone and spermProlactinBreastsStimulates the breasts to produce milk.This hormone is secreted in large amounts during pregnancy and breastfeedingACTH(adrenocorticotropic hormone)Adrenals Stimulates the adrenal glands to secrete steroid hormones, principally cortisolTSH(Thyroid-stimulating Hormone)Thyroid Stimulates the thyroid gland to secrete thyroid hormonesThe thyroid makes hormones that regulate the way the body uses energy. It also plays an important role in regulating weight, body TEMPERATURE, muscle strength.ADH *(Anti-diuretic Hormone)Kidneys Controls water retention by the kidneys which in turn regulates the blood fluid and mineral levels in the bodyOxytocin **These Hormones are only stored and secreted (and not synthesized) by the pituitary gland.Uterus Breasts Affects uterine contractions in pregnancy and birth and subsequent release of breast milk.