Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS) Practice Exam

Which hormone regulates the metabolism of glucose in the body?

1. Insulin

2. Glucagon

3. Cortisol

4. Thyroxine

The correct answer is: Insulin

The hormone that regulates the metabolism of glucose in the body is insulin. It is produced by the pancreas and plays a crucial role in lowering blood sugar levels after meals by facilitating the uptake of glucose into cells for energy use or storage as glycogen. Insulin signals cells, particularly in the liver, muscle, and fat tissues, to take in glucose from the bloodstream, which helps maintain normal blood glucose levels. In contrast, glucagon acts in the opposite manner; it raises blood glucose levels by promoting the release of glucose from the liver. Cortisol influences glucose metabolism indirectly by affecting protein and fat metabolism and can lead to increased glucose production during stress. Thyroxine primarily regulates metabolism and energy expenditure but does not directly manage glucose levels in the same way that insulin does. Thus, insulin is specifically recognized for its direct role in glucose metabolism and homeostasis.