A _____ hormone is one that results in the production of a second hormone within a target gland.

A trophic hormone is specifically designed to stimulate a target gland to produce and release another hormone. This characteristic distinguishes it from other types of hormones. Trophic hormones play a crucial role in the endocrine system, as they help regulate various bodily functions by prompting glands to secrete hormones that will elicit specific physiological responses. For example, hormones released by the pituitary gland can act on adrenal, thyroid, or gonadal glands, all of which then produce hormones that participate in metabolism, growth, reproductive functions, and more.

In contrast, releasing hormones encourage the release of other hormones without necessarily prompting the production of a secondary hormone in a target gland. Therefore, while both releasing and trophic hormones might be involved in the cascade of hormonal signals, it is the trophic hormones that specifically ensure the production of a second hormone.