Final answer:
The hormone that does not lead to increased serum glucose levels is insulin. Unlike other hormones mentioned, insulin lowers blood sugar by helping cells absorb glucose, which is in stark contrast to hormones like ACTH, glucagon, growth hormone, and epinephrine that increase it. The correct option is b. Insulin.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hormones and Blood Glucose Levels
The question is asking which hormone does not lead to an increase in serum glucose levels. The correct answer is insulin. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas and plays a crucial role in regulating blood glucose levels. When there is a rise in blood glucose levels, the pancreas releases insulin to help cells absorb glucose from the bloodstream, effectively lowering the blood sugar level.
This is in contrast to other hormones such as adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), glucagon, growth hormone, and epinephrine, which all work to increase serum glucose levels through various mechanisms.
ACTH stimulates the production of glucocorticoids like cortisol, which in turn enhances gluconeogenesis in the liver, increasing blood glucose levels. Glucagon, also produced by the pancreas, raises blood glucose levels by promoting the conversion of stored glycogen to glucose in the liver.
Growth hormone not only promotes body growth but also increases serum glucose through its glucose-sparing effect and stimulation of gluconeogenesis. Similarly, epinephrine triggers the breakdown of glycogen into glucose and inhibits insulin secretion, resulting in elevated blood glucose levels.
Therefore, considering the functions of each hormone, insulin is the exception as it reduces, rather than increases, serum glucose levels.