Question

Select the correct statement.

• A. Glucocorticoids stimulate gluconeogenesis.
• B. Glucagon is associated with hypoglycemia.
• C. Insulin acts on pancreatic cells and adipocytes.
• D. Insulin is associated with hyperglycemia.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

The question is about understanding the effects of various hormones related to glucose metabolism. Let's analyze each option to determine the correct statement:

1. Glucocorticoids stimulate gluconeogenesis.
   Glucocorticoids, such as cortisol, increase the process of gluconeogenesis. Gluconeogenesis is the synthesis of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources, primarily in the liver. This process helps in increasing the blood glucose level, providing energy during stress or fasting. Hence, this statement is correct.
2. Glucagon is associated with hypoglycemia.
   Glucagon is a hormone that works to raise blood glucose levels by promoting glycogenolysis (breakdown of glycogen to glucose) and gluconeogenesis in the liver. It is typically released in response to low blood glucose levels to increase them, hence it is not associated with hypoglycemia. Therefore, this statement is incorrect.
3. Insulin acts on pancreatic cells and adipocytes.
   Insulin primarily acts on body cells such as muscle and fat cells (adipocytes) to promote glucose uptake from the blood, thus lowering blood glucose levels. While it is produced in the pancreatic cells (beta cells of the pancreas), it does not act on them. This makes the statement partially correct, but misleading in terms of action.
4. Insulin is associated with hyperglycemia.
   Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that facilitates the uptake of glucose by tissues, thereby reducing blood glucose levels. It is actually associated with preventing hyperglycemia (high blood sugar levels), not causing it. This statement is incorrect.

After analyzing all the statements, the option "Glucocorticoids stimulate gluconeogenesis." is the correct answer as it accurately describes the function of glucocorticoids in glucose metabolism.