Question

Which of the following hormones is (are) secreted by the adrenal gland in response to stress and promotes the synthesis of glucose from non-carbohydrate substrates?

• A. Glucagon
• B. Glucocorticoids
• C. ACTH
• D. Insulin

Answer 1

The correct option is B Glucocorticoids

Glucocorticoids are secreted from the cortex region of the adrenal gland and function to increase glucose levels in the body. Glucocorticoids stimulate gluconeogenesis or glucose from fats and proteins in the liver. Glucocorticoids also stimulate the liver to produce the enzymes needed for gluconeogenesis, the conversion of amino acids into glucose. This creation of glucose from protein is particularly important during very long periods of fasting or exercise when blood glucose levels might otherwise become dangerously low. Insulin and glucagon are secreted by the pancreas and regulate blood glucose levels. ACTH is secreted by the anterior pituitary and stimulates the synthesis and secretion of steroid hormones called glucocorticoids from the adrenal cortex.