Summary
Insulin lowers and glucagon raises blood glucose through negative feedback.
In depth
Normal fasting glucose is 4 to 6 mmol/L. Beta cells release insulin when it rises: cells absorb glucose, liver forms glycogen. Alpha cells release glucagon when low, stimulating glycogen breakdown. Adrenaline and cortisol also raise glucose.
The glucose tolerance test diagnoses diabetes. Insulin stimulates GLUT4 insertion in muscle and fat. Glucagon works on the liver.
Remember: both hormones come from the pancreas but are antagonistic.
Frequently asked questions
What is Blood Glucose Regulation?
Insulin lowers and glucagon raises blood glucose through negative feedback.
Which area of biology covers Blood Glucose Regulation, and how advanced is it?
Blood Glucose Regulation is one of the 51 topics in Human Physiology. It is rated Intermediate, so it suits learners who already know the core vocabulary. Related topics in this area include Gut Hormones, Diabetes Mellitus, Nephron Function.
Can you give an example of Blood Glucose Regulation?
Type 1 diabetics inject insulin.
What should I learn before Blood Glucose Regulation?
Work through the Beginner topics in Human Physiology first, such as Homeostasis, Tissues and Organs, Skeletal System, then return to Blood Glucose Regulation. Intermediate topics assume the Beginner vocabulary.
What topics are related to Blood Glucose Regulation?
The closest topics to Blood Glucose Regulation are Gut Hormones, Diabetes Mellitus, Nephron Function, Homeostasis. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Blood Glucose Regulation?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Blood Glucose Regulation. To practise the whole of Human Physiology, use the Human Physiology quiz.
How is Blood Glucose Regulation different from Gut Hormones?
Blood Glucose Regulation: Insulin lowers and glucagon raises blood glucose through negative feedback. Gut Hormones: Gastrin, secretin and cholecystokinin coordinate digestive secretions and motility. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Blood Glucose Regulation step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Gut Hormones and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Human Physiology quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.