Final answer:
When the adrenal gland releases glucocorticoids, the observed effects can include increased blood levels of amino acids, decreased immune function, increased lipid breakdown in the liver, and elevated blood glucose levels. They do not typically lead to decreased blood pressure or volume, or increased water absorption in the kidneys.
Step-by-step explanation:
As the adrenal gland releases glucocorticoids, a variety of physiological effects may be observed. The effects include:
- A. Increased blood levels of amino acids: Glucocorticoids stimulate the breakdown of proteins, releasing amino acids into the bloodstream.
- C. Decrease in immune system function: These hormones have anti-inflammatory properties and suppress the immune response.
- D. Lipid breakdown in the liver will increase: Glucocorticoids promote the release of fatty acids from adipose tissue.
- F. Increased blood glucose levels: They stimulate the synthesis of glucose in the liver and gluconeogenesis, raising blood glucose levels.
Glucocorticoids do not typically result in decreased blood pressure and volume, as this is rather a role of mineralocorticoids such as aldosterone. They also do not increase water absorption in the kidney; this is the role of antidiuretic hormone (ADH).