What physiological effect does cortisol exert in small amounts?

What physiological effect does cortisol exert in small amounts?

• A. Inhibits bone growth
• B. Stimulates bone resorption
• C. Contributes to bone development
• D. Suppresses muscle growth

Answer: (C)

Cortisol, a corticosteroid hormone, plays various roles in the body, even when present in small amounts. In particular, it has been shown to contribute to bone development through its effects on bone remodeling and metabolism. Cortisol can influence the activity of osteoblasts, which are the cells responsible for bone formation. While excessive cortisol levels can lead to negative impacts such as bone resorption and decreased bone density, normal physiological levels can help maintain bone health. This contribution to bone development is crucial for maintaining a balanced bone remodeling process, as cortisol helps regulate the synthesis of proteins necessary for bone formation and can enhance the response of bone to other growth factors. Understanding the intricate role of cortisol within the body underscores the importance of maintaining proper hormone levels for optimal bone health.

Cortisol, a corticosteroid hormone, plays various roles in the body, even when present in small amounts. In particular, it has been shown to contribute to bone development through its effects on bone remodeling and metabolism. Cortisol can influence the activity of osteoblasts, which are the cells responsible for bone formation. While excessive cortisol levels can lead to negative impacts such as bone resorption and decreased bone density, normal physiological levels can help maintain bone health.

This contribution to bone development is crucial for maintaining a balanced bone remodeling process, as cortisol helps regulate the synthesis of proteins necessary for bone formation and can enhance the response of bone to other growth factors. Understanding the intricate role of cortisol within the body underscores the importance of maintaining proper hormone levels for optimal bone health.