The major glands of the endocrine system include which of the following?

The major glands of the endocrine system are indeed the pituitary gland, hypothalamus, and adrenal glands, among others. Each of these glands plays a crucial role in hormone production and regulation, which is essential for maintaining homeostasis in the body.

The pituitary gland, often referred to as the "master gland," regulates various bodily functions by controlling other glands and releasing hormones that influence growth, metabolism, and reproductive processes.

The hypothalamus acts as a link between the endocrine and nervous systems, regulating the pituitary gland's secretion of hormones and maintaining the body's internal environment by controlling temperature, thirst, hunger, and circadian rhythms.

The adrenal glands produce hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which are vital for stress response and metabolic functions. They play a role in regulating metabolism, the immune response, blood pressure, and the stress response.

Because each of these glands is integral to the endocrine system and contributes to its complex web of hormonal signaling, the inclusion of all three in the answer reflects a comprehensive understanding of the system’s structure and function.