ISSA Nutritionist Practice Exam

Which of the following receptors is capable of increasing blood glucose?

1. Insulin receptors

2. Ghrelin receptors

3. Vasopressin 1a receptors

4. Somatostatin receptors

The correct answer is: Vasopressin 1a receptors

The vasopressin 1a receptors, when activated, can contribute to increases in blood glucose levels. Vasopressin, also known as antidiuretic hormone (ADH), influences kidney function and blood pressure regulation. Its role extends beyond these functions as it can also have metabolic effects. Specifically, vasopressin can promote gluconeogenesis and glycogenolysis in the liver, processes that generate glucose or release stored glucose into the bloodstream, thus elevating blood glucose levels. In contrast, insulin receptors are primarily responsible for lowering blood glucose levels by facilitating the uptake of glucose into cells. Ghrelin receptors, which respond to ghrelin (a hormone that stimulates appetite), do not have a direct role in increasing blood glucose; instead, ghrelin can stimulate hunger and indirectly influence metabolism. Somatostatin receptors play a role in inhibiting the secretion of insulin and glucagon, leading to a decrease in blood glucose levels. Therefore, the action of vasopressin 1a receptors aligns with the mechanism that can result in increased blood glucose, making this the correct choice in the context of the question.