Question

Which of the following is true regarding the actions of growth hormone?

1) It promotes protein synthesis, especially in muscle
2) It promotes higher blood sugar levels via its anti-insulin effects
3) It promotes the breakdown of fats to increase circulating energy stores
4) All except one of these are true
5) All of these are true

Answer 1

Growth hormone promotes protein synthesis and the breakdown of fats to increase circulating energy stores, but it does not promote higher blood sugar levels via its anti-insulin effects.

Step-by-step explanation:

Growth hormone (GH), produced by the anterior portion of the pituitary gland, accelerates the rate of protein synthesis, particularly in skeletal muscle and bones.

In addition to promoting protein synthesis, GH also stimulates the breakdown of triglycerides (lipolysis) and release into the blood, resulting in most tissues switching from utilizing glucose to fatty acids for energy. This glucose-sparing effect causes an increase in blood glucose levels, similar to the high blood glucose levels seen in diabetes mellitus.

Therefore, option 4) All except one of these are true is the correct answer. Growth hormone promotes protein synthesis and the breakdown of fats to increase circulating energy stores, but it does not promote higher blood sugar levels via its anti-insulin effects.