Growth hormone does all of the following EXCEPT:

• A. Stimulate protein synthesis
• B. Increase fat breakdown
• C. Lower blood glucose levels
• D. Promote bone growth

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of growth hormone (GH): Growth hormone is a peptide hormone that plays a critical role in growth, metabolism, and tissue repair. It primarily acts on the liver and other tissues to stimulate the production of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), which promotes growth and metabolic effects.
2. Review the functions of growth hormone: GH stimulates protein synthesis, increases fat breakdown (lipolysis), and promotes bone growth by stimulating the proliferation of cartilage cells in growth plates.
3. Analyze the exception: Growth hormone does not lower blood glucose levels. In fact, it has a hyperglycemic effect, meaning it increases blood glucose levels by reducing glucose uptake in tissues and promoting gluconeogenesis in the liver.
4. Compare the options: Identify which functions are consistent with the known effects of growth hormone (stimulating protein synthesis, increasing fat breakdown, and promoting bone growth) and which one is not (lowering blood glucose levels).
5. Conclude the correct answer: Based on the analysis, the correct answer is the one that does not align with the known functions of growth hormone, which is 'Lower blood glucose levels.'