Which statement correctly matches the metabolic actions of epinephrine and cortisol?

• A. Epinephrine: Lipolysis, Glycogenolysis; Cortisol: Lipolysis, Gluconeogenesis, Glycogenolysis
• B. Epinephrine: Inhibits lipolysis; Cortisol: Inhibits gluconeogenesis
• C. Epinephrine: Increases glycolysis; Cortisol: Decreases lipolysis
• D. Epinephrine: Stimulates glycogenesis; Cortisol: Inhibits glycogenolysis

Answer: (A)

When the body needs quick and sustained energy, hormone regulators coordinate to mobilize fuel stores. Epinephrine acts rapidly to release glucose and fatty acids: it promotes lipolysis in adipose tissue and drives glycogenolysis in the liver, providing a quick glucose supply and substrates for energy. Cortisol acts a bit later but sustains the process by boosting hepatic gluconeogenesis to keep glucose levels up, and it also supports lipolysis and glycogenolysis by increasing the enzymes that carry out these steps.

The best match reflects these roles: epinephrine promotes lipolysis and glycogenolysis, while cortisol promotes lipolysis, gluconeogenesis, and glycogenolysis. This combination aligns with the fast mobilization from epinephrine and the longer-term glucose production supported by cortisol.

Other statements misrepresent these actions, such as epinephrine inhibiting lipolysis or cortisol inhibiting gluconeogenesis, or proposing glycogenesis or reduced lipolysis, which don’t fit the established hormonal effects.