Question

Which one of the following hormones is not involved in sugar metabolism?

• A. Cortisol
• B. Glucagon
• C. Insulin
• D. Aldosterone

Answer 1

The correct option is D Aldosterone

The endocrine part of the pancreas secretes the hormones insulin and glucagon. Both of them play an important role in maintaining normal blood glucose levels. Glucagon acts on the liver cells (hepatocytes) and stimulates the breakdown of glycogen (glycogenolysis) to form glucose, leading to increased blood sugar levels. Insulin acts on hepatocytes and adipocytes (cells of adipose tissue), and stimulates the uptake and utilization of glucose by the cells. As a result, there is a decrease in blood glucose levels.
Cortisol is a glucocorticoid secreted by the adrenal cortex. It is involved in carbohydrate metabolism, e.g. gluconeogenesis.
All these three hormones are involved in sugar metabolism.

Aldosterone is a mineralocorticoid released by the adrenal cortex. It is responsible for maintaining electrolyte balance, body fluid volume, osmotic pressure and blood pressure. It has no role in sugar metabolism.