Which gland connects the nervous system with the endocrine system?

The hypothalamus is the gland that connects the nervous system with the endocrine system, serving as a critical link between these two systems. It is located in the brain and plays a vital role in regulating various bodily functions by producing hormones that control the pituitary gland, which in turn regulates other endocrine glands throughout the body.

The hypothalamus responds to signals from the nervous system and can release or inhibit hormones based on these signals, effectively translating neural input into hormonal output. This makes it essential for maintaining homeostasis, regulating temperature, thirst, hunger, sleep, and circadian rhythms.

Other glands listed do have important roles within the endocrine system. The pituitary gland, often called the "master gland," is regulated by the hypothalamus and controls several other hormones but does not connect the nervous system directly. The thyroid gland primarily regulates metabolism and is not a direct connector of systems. The adrenal glands produce hormones involved in stress responses but also rely on signals from the hypothalamus and pituitary.

Therefore, the hypothalamus is uniquely positioned as the interface between the nervous and endocrine systems, making it the correct answer for this question.