Which of the following hormones is classified as a steroid hormone?

• A. Glucagon
• B. Cortisol
• C. Insulin
• D. Epinephrine

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the classification of hormones. Hormones can be broadly categorized into steroid hormones, peptide hormones, and amine hormones based on their chemical structure.
2. Step 2: Recall that steroid hormones are derived from cholesterol and are lipid-soluble. They can pass through cell membranes and typically bind to intracellular receptors to influence gene expression.
3. Step 3: Review the given options: Glucagon, Cortisol, Insulin, and Epinephrine. Identify which of these hormones is derived from cholesterol and fits the characteristics of a steroid hormone.
4. Step 4: Note that Glucagon and Insulin are peptide hormones, meaning they are composed of amino acids and act on cell surface receptors. Epinephrine is an amine hormone derived from tyrosine, not cholesterol.
5. Step 5: Recognize that Cortisol is a steroid hormone. It is synthesized in the adrenal cortex from cholesterol and plays a role in stress response, metabolism, and immune regulation.