Which hormone enhances the production of insulin?

Growth Hormone (GH) plays a significant role in the regulation of various metabolic processes, including the enhancement of insulin production. GH stimulates the pancreatic beta cells to increase their output of insulin, which is essential for glucose homeostasis. This stimulation helps in managing blood sugar levels by promoting the uptake of glucose in cells, particularly after meals.

GH's effect on insulin is part of a broader interaction with other hormones and metabolic pathways aimed at maintaining energy balance in the body. While GH increases insulin production, it also promotes insulin resistance in some tissues, creating a complex relationship between insulin signaling and growth hormone levels.

The other hormones mentioned, such as cortisol, thyroid hormones, and ACTH, have differing roles and mechanisms in glucose metabolism and do not primarily enhance insulin production in the same manner as Growth Hormone. For instance, cortisol can increase blood glucose levels by promoting gluconeogenesis, but it does not directly enhance insulin secretion from the pancreas. Similarly, thyroid hormones regulate metabolism but do not have a direct effect on insulin production itself. ACTH primarily stimulates cortisol production from the adrenal glands and does not have a significant role in insulin production either.