Question

which pairs of hormones have opposing (antagonistic) functions?
luteinizing hormone and follicle - stimulating hormone
insulin and glucagon
aldosterone and androgen
epinephrine and norepinephrine

Explanation:

To determine which hormone pair has antagonistic functions, we analyze each option:

• Luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle - stimulating hormone (FSH) both play roles in the reproductive system (e.g., in the menstrual cycle or sperm production) and have complementary rather than opposing functions.
• Insulin lowers blood glucose levels by promoting glucose uptake and storage, while glucagon raises blood glucose levels by promoting glycogen breakdown and gluconeogenesis. Their functions are directly opposing, so they are antagonistic.
• Aldosterone is involved in electrolyte and fluid balance (increasing sodium reabsorption and potassium excretion), and androgen (e.g., testosterone) is involved in male sexual development and secondary sexual characteristics. Their functions are not opposing.
• Epinephrine and norepinephrine both are involved in the "fight - or - flight" response, increasing heart rate, blood pressure, etc., and have similar functions rather than opposing ones.

Answer:

B. Insulin and glucagon