Which of the following is NOT a hormone associated with muscle growth?

Cortisol is a hormone primarily involved in the body's stress response and is known for its role in catabolic processes, which can actually lead to the breakdown of muscle tissue when present in elevated levels over prolonged periods. On the other hand, insulin-like growth factor, growth hormone, and testosterone are all anabolic hormones that promote tissue growth, including muscle. Insulin-like growth factor is crucial for muscle repair and growth, growth hormone stimulates the production of IGF and encourages muscle growth and recovery, and testosterone is a potent anabolic hormone that enhances protein synthesis and muscle mass development. Therefore, among the hormones listed, cortisol is the one that does not support muscle growth and is instead associated with muscle breakdown.