Endocrine regulation · USMLE Step 1

Which physiologic effect is most directly mediated by glucocorticoids like cortisol during prolonged stress?

  1. Increased insulin secretion causing hypoglycemia
  2. Enhanced immune response
  3. Increased gluconeogenesis and blood glucose
  4. Increased immune cell proliferation
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Correct answer: Increased gluconeogenesis and blood glucose

Glucocorticoids such as cortisol promote gluconeogenesis, raising blood glucose — a key component of the metabolic adaptation to prolonged stress.

Difficulty: Medium Question 18 of 23

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