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Which of the following increases sugar levels in the blood?
estrogen
dopamine
glucagon and epinephrine
oxytocin
The correct answer is: glucagon and epinephrine
Glucagon and epinephrine are hormones that play a crucial role in increasing blood sugar levels. Glucagon, produced by the pancreas, prompts the liver to convert stored glycogen into glucose, releasing it into the bloodstream. This process is vital during fasting or between meals when blood sugar levels may drop. Epinephrine, also known as adrenaline, is released during stress or "fight or flight" responses and has a similar effect by stimulating glycogen breakdown in the liver and promoting glucose release into the bloodstream. The other hormones listed do not primarily function to raise blood sugar levels. For instance, estrogen and oxytocin are more involved in reproductive and social behaviors rather than directly regulating glucose metabolism. Dopamine is primarily a neurotransmitter that plays roles in mood, reward, and motor control, but it does not have a significant direct effect on blood glucose levels. Therefore, glucagon and epinephrine are the correct choices for increasing sugar levels in the blood.