Pituitary Gland:  It is also referred to as the “master gland” because it controls all hormonal function. The pituitary is located under the brain in the skull base, weighs less than one gram and measures one centimeter in width. Hormones when released by the pituitary into the blood stream have a dramatic and broad range of effects on growth and development, sexuality and reproductive function, metabolism, the response to stress and overall quality of life. Learn more.