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Multiple Choice
Which of the following substances is a hormone and a neurotransmitter?
A
acetylcholine
B
nicotine
C
norepinephrine
D
dopamine
E
muscarine
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the dual role of certain substances in the body: Some substances can function both as hormones and neurotransmitters, meaning they can be released into the bloodstream to act on distant targets (hormone) or released at synapses to act on nearby cells (neurotransmitter).
Identify the substances listed: acetylcholine, nicotine, norepinephrine, dopamine, and muscarine. Recognize that not all of these substances have dual roles.
Recall the primary functions of each substance: Acetylcholine is primarily a neurotransmitter. Nicotine is a stimulant that acts on nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. Norepinephrine functions as both a hormone and a neurotransmitter. Dopamine is primarily a neurotransmitter. Muscarine is a compound that affects muscarinic acetylcholine receptors.
Focus on norepinephrine: It is released by the adrenal glands into the bloodstream as a hormone and also acts as a neurotransmitter in the central and peripheral nervous systems.
Conclude that norepinephrine is the correct answer, as it is the only substance in the list that functions both as a hormone and a neurotransmitter.