TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) is produced by the anterior pituitary lobe. The anterior pituitary is a small gland located at the base of the brain that is responsible for producing and releasing various hormones that regulate different functions in the body.

- TSH is one of the many hormones produced by the anterior pituitary and plays a crucial role in the regulation of the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is located in the neck and is responsible for producing thyroid hormones that are essential for normal growth, development, and metabolism.

- The production of TSH is regulated by a negative feedback loop involving the hypothalamus, anterior pituitary, and thyroid gland. When the levels of thyroid hormones in the blood are low, the hypothalamus releases thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH), which stimulates the anterior pituitary to release TSH.

- TSH then acts on the thyroid gland, stimulating the production and release of thyroid hormones, primarily thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones play a vital role in regulating the body's metabolism, growth, and development.

- Once the levels of thyroid hormones in the blood reach a certain threshold, they inhibit the release of TRH and TSH through negative feedback. This helps to maintain a stable balance of thyroid hormones in the body.

- TSH also plays a role in the growth and development of the thyroid gland itself. In conditions such as hypothyroidism or goiter, where the thyroid gland is underactive or enlarged, respectively, the levels of TSH may be elevated as the body tries to compensate for the decreased production of thyroid hormones.

- In summary, TSH is produced by the anterior pituitary and plays a crucial role in the regulation of thyroid function. It stimulates the production and release of thyroid hormones, which are essential for normal growth, development, and metabolism.