Which gland secretes hormones that control male reproductive functions?

The pituitary gland plays a crucial role in regulating male reproductive functions through the secretion of specific hormones. It releases luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), both of which are vital for the development and maintenance of male reproductive tissues. LH stimulates the production of testosterone from the Leydig cells in the testes, which is essential for the development of male secondary sexual characteristics and overall reproductive health. FSH is involved in the process of spermatogenesis, promoting the maturation of sperm cells. Thus, the pituitary gland is central to the hormonal regulation of male reproduction, making it the correct answer to the question.

In contrast, the thyroid gland primarily regulates metabolism, while the adrenal gland produces hormones related to stress response and metabolism, including cortisol and adrenaline. The parathyroid gland is involved in calcium homeostasis and does not have a role in reproductive hormone secretion, which further differentiates the pituitary gland's specific function in male reproductive hormone regulation.