Why are the hormones of the adenohypophysis known as tropic hormones?

The hormones of the adenohypophysis, or anterior pituitary gland, are referred to as tropic hormones because they primarily stimulate other endocrine glands to produce and release their own hormones. Each of these hormones targets specific glands; for example, adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) acts on the adrenal cortex, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) influences the thyroid gland, and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) affect the gonads. This interaction establishes a regulatory network that is essential for maintaining homeostasis and coordinating various physiological processes throughout the body.

The other options do not accurately reflect the primary function of adenohypophysis hormones. While some hormones may have roles in metabolism regulation or influence bodily rhythms, their defining characteristic is their triggering effect on other endocrine glands.