Problem 90 - Objective Biology for NEET

Question

Select the correct matching. (a) Insulin - \downarrowes the uptake of glucose utilization by hepatocyte and adipocytes (b) Cortisol - \downarrowes RBC production, causes inflammation (c) Thymosin - Promotes the production of antibodies to provide humoral immunity also (d) Thyroxine - No role in water and electrolyte balance

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The correct statements are (c) Thymosin - Promotes the production of antibodies to provide humoral immunity also and (d) Thyroxine - No role in water and electrolyte balance

Step 1 - Insulin function analysis

Insulin is a hormone secreted by the pancreas that facilitates the uptake and utilization of glucose by cells, especially hepatocytes (liver cells) and adipocytes (fat cells). Insulin essentially \(\uparrowes\) the uptake of glucose, rather than \(\downarrowes\). Thus, statement (a) is incorrect.

Step 2 - Cortisol function analysis

Cortisol is a glucocorticoid hormone produced by the adrenal glands. It plays a role in stress response, metabolism of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates, and anti-inflammatory processes. However, it \(\uparrowes\) RBC (Red Blood Cell) production, not \(\downarrowes\). Thus, statement (b) is incorrect.

Step 3 - Thymosin function analysis

Thymosin is a hormone secreted by the thymus gland and it plays a crucial role in the development and differentiation of T cells for the immune system. Therefore, it does indeed promote the production of antibodies, providing humoral immunity. Statement (c) is correct.

Step 4 - Thyroxine function analysis

Thyroxine also referred to as T4, is a hormone produced by the thyroid gland with an important role in metabolism, growth and development. However, thyroxine has no significant role in water and electrolyte balance. Thus, statement (d) is also correct.

Key Concepts

Insulin

Insulin is a vital hormone produced by the pancreas. It plays a key role in regulating blood sugar levels in the body. When you eat, your blood glucose levels rise, and insulin helps cells take in glucose to use as energy.

Insulin primarily targets hepatocytes and adipocytes, or liver and fat cells, respectively. Contrary to popular misconception, insulin increases the uptake of glucose by these cells. This action helps to lower blood sugar levels after meals.

• Facilitates cellular glucose uptake
• Reduces blood sugar levels
• Aids in energy storage

If insulin levels are insufficient or its function is impaired, it may lead to conditions like diabetes. This underscores the hormone's importance in maintaining metabolic health.

Cortisol

Cortisol is known as the 'stress hormone', produced by the adrenal glands. It helps the body respond to stress and helps regulate various functions, including metabolism and the immune response.

While cortisol is connected with stress, it also increases the production of red blood cells (RBCs) and has an essential role in inflammatory processes. This often confuses people who mistakenly believe it reduces RBC production or only causes inflammation.

• Helps manage stress
• Increases RBC production
• Has anti-inflammatory effects

Cortisol's regulation is crucial, as too much or too little can lead to health issues such as Cushing's syndrome or Addison's disease.

Thymosin

Thymosin is a hormone secreted by the thymus gland, essential for immune system development. It serves an important function in the maturation and differentiation of T cells.

By promoting the production of antibodies, thymosin helps the body provide humoral immunity, an aspect of immune response that relies on molecules in the blood to combat pathogens.

• Supports T cell development
• Facilitates antibody production
• Enables humoral immune response

The thymus gland and thymosin are vital for protecting the body against infectious diseases by supporting a robust immune system.

Thyroxine

Thyroxine, or T4, is a hormone produced by the thyroid gland and has an essential role in governing metabolism. It regulates how the body uses energy and impacts growth and development.

Although crucial for metabolism, thyroxine doesn't play a role in water and electrolyte balance, which is often a point of confusion. Its primary function revolves around facilitating efficient energy usage.

• Regulates metabolic rate
• Contributes to growth and development
• Not involved in water or electrolyte balance

Balanced thyroxine levels are important for maintaining a healthy metabolism, with extremes often resulting in conditions like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.