Which of the following pituitary hormones does not directly control other endocrine glands or structures?

Options

A. Thyroid - stimulating hormone (TSH)
B. Lutenizing hormone (LH)
C. Adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH)
D. Growth hormone (GH)

Answer

To determine which pituitary hormone does not directly control other endocrine glands or structures, we will analyze each option provided in the question.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Identify the Pituitary Hormones**: The hormones listed in the question are:
- Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH)
- Luteinizing Hormone (LH)
- Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH)
- Growth Hormone (GH)

2. **Analyze Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH)**:
- TSH is produced by the anterior pituitary gland and stimulates the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones (T3 and T4). Therefore, TSH directly controls another endocrine gland (the thyroid gland).

3. **Analyze Luteinizing Hormone (LH)**:
- LH is also produced by the anterior pituitary gland and plays a crucial role in regulating the function of the gonads. In males, it stimulates testosterone production, and in females, it triggers ovulation and maintains the corpus luteum. Thus, LH directly controls other structures (the gonads).

4. **Analyze Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH)**:
- ACTH is produced by the anterior pituitary gland and stimulates the adrenal cortex to release cortisol and other hormones. This means ACTH also directly controls another endocrine gland (the adrenal gland).

5. **Analyze Growth Hormone (GH)**:
- GH is produced by the anterior pituitary gland and primarily stimulates growth and cell reproduction in various tissues throughout the body. Unlike the other hormones, GH does not target another endocrine gland directly; instead, it acts on tissues to promote growth.

6. **Conclusion**:
- Among the hormones listed, Growth Hormone (GH) is the one that does not directly control other endocrine glands or structures.

### Final Answer:
The pituitary hormone that does not directly control other endocrine glands or structures is **Growth Hormone (GH)**.