Question

Which of the following cells does not secrete hormones?
A. Kupffer cell
B. Leydig cell
C. Lutein cell
D. Parafollicular cells of thyroid

Answer 1

Hint: Hormones are chemical messengers of the body. They are defined as chemical substances which affect activity of some other part of the body. They serve as messengers by coordinating and controlling growth, development and metabolism throughout the body. Thus, they are involved in controlling the organs’ functions. In addition, they are essential to reproduction. Besides, they guide our body to utilize energy effectively.

Complete answer:
Option A Kupffer cell: Kupffer cell is a phagocytic cell. It is found in the sinusoids of the liver. It is the first innate immune cell, which protects the liver from infection. It is adherent to endothelial cells making blood vessel walls. It can be activated to produce eicosanoids and cytokines; through which it aids in the repair process. But it does not involve producing any hormone.
Option A is correct.
Option B Leydig cell: Leydig cell is an interstitial cell, which is located in connective tissue surrounding seminiferous tubules. At the developmental stage of male embryo, it produces androgen hormone, thereby inducing male urogenital structures. It also produces testosterone under the control of Luteinizing hormone (LH) from the pituitary. Thus, it is involved in production of hormones.
Hence, Option B is not correct.
Option C Lutein cell: Lutein cells form the corpus luteum by forming large luteal cells from small luteal cells. It aids in the synthesis of progesterone hormone from cholesterol. It also helps to synthesize some estrogen, which forms the hormonal patterns in the menstrual cycle. So, the lutein cell produces both estrogen and progesterone.
So, Option C is not correct.
Option D Parafollicular cells of thyroid: Parafollicular cells of thyroid are also called C cells. They are scattered throughout the connective tissue, adjacent to the thyroid follicle. The main function of the parafollicular cell is secretion of the hormone calcitonin. Calcitonin helps to regulate calcium and phosphate levels in the blood and oppose the activity of parathyroid hormone. Thus, parafollicular cells of thyroid is involved in production of hormone, calcitonin
Option D is not correct.

Therefore, Option A) is the correct answer.

Note:
Kupffer cells are mainly involved in immunity, providing defense to the body against bacterial infections. Leydig, lutein and parafollicular cells are involved in hormone production, which are necessary for growth and regulation of the body. From this, we come to know that the Kupffer cells are not involved in hormone production. They have a separate function of ingesting the large microbial cells by phagocytosis and small molecules by pinocytosis. On the other hand, Leydig, lutein and parafollicular cells are involved in production of androgen, estrogen and calcitonin respectively.