Correct Answer:
B. Thyroid gland
The question concerns an endocrine gland requiring iodine for hormone synthesis, with deficiency causing goitre. The Thyroid gland is the correct answer. This gland produces thyroid hormones (T3 and T4), vital for regulating metabolism, growth, and development. Iodine is an essential micronutrient incorporated into these hormones. A lack of dietary iodine impairs hormone production, causing the thyroid gland to enlarge in an attempt to compensate, leading to a condition known as goitre.
- The Hypothalamus controls the pituitary but doesn't directly synthesize iodine-dependent hormones.
- The Pancreas produces insulin and glucagon, unrelated to iodine.
- The Adrenal gland produces hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which do not require iodine.