Hormone sensitive lipase is inhibited by-
**Question:** Hormone sensitive lipase is inhibited by-
A. Insulin
B. Glucagon
C. Thiazolidinediones
D. Sodium gluconate
**Core Concept:**
Hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL) is a lipase enzyme that plays a crucial role in lipolysis, the process of breaking down stored fats into glycerol and free fatty acids to be used as an energy source. Inhibition of HSL can lead to suppression of lipolysis and increased fat storage.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right:**
The correct answer is **B. Glucagon**. Glucagon is a hormone produced by alpha cells in the pancreas in response to low blood glucose levels. Its primary function is to stimulate glycogenolysis (breakdown of glycogen) and gluconeogenesis (synthesis of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources) to increase blood glucose levels. As part of this process, glucagon stimulates lipolysis through the activation of hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL). Inhibition of HSL would counteract the action of glucagon, thus preventing lipolysis.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**
A. **Insulin**: Insulin is a hormone produced by beta cells in the pancreas and plays a vital role in lowering blood glucose levels. While insulin inhibits lipolysis, it does not directly inhibit HSL.
C. **Thiazolidinediones**: These are a class of medications used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes, primarily by improving insulin sensitivity. They do not directly inhibit HSL.
D. **Sodium gluconate**: Sodium gluconate is an inorganic compound used as a food additive and preservative, not a pharmacological agent targeting HSL.
**Clinical Pearl:**
Understanding the relationship between hormones like glucagon and insulin, and their effects on lipolysis can be crucial in understanding glucose homeostasis and the pathogenesis of diseases like diabetes mellitus. Inhibition of HSL could be beneficial in combating obesity and related disorders by reducing fat storage. However, this concept is currently being studied and is not a standard treatment modality.