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How do hormones regulate glucose levels in the blood?

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Hormones play a crucial role in regulating glucose levels in the blood to maintain overall energy balance and homeostasis. The primary hormones involved in this process are insulin and glucagon, which are produced by the pancreas. Other hormones, such as cortisol, epinephrine, and growth hormone, also contribute to glucose regulation.1. Insulin: Insulin is produced and secreted by the beta cells of the pancreas in response to high blood glucose levels, such as after a meal. Insulin promotes the uptake of glucose by cells, particularly in the liver, muscle, and adipose tissue. In the liver and muscle cells, glucose is converted into glycogen for storage. In adipose tissue, glucose is used to synthesize fatty acids and triglycerides. Insulin also inhibits the breakdown of glycogen and the production of glucose in the liver. Overall, insulin lowers blood glucose levels by promoting glucose uptake and storage and inhibiting glucose production.2. Glucagon: Glucagon is produced and secreted by the alpha cells of the pancreas in response to low blood glucose levels, such as during fasting or between meals. Glucagon stimulates the breakdown of glycogen in the liver, releasing glucose into the bloodstream. It also promotes gluconeogenesis, the production of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources, such as amino acids and glycerol. Glucagon, therefore, raises blood glucose levels by stimulating glucose release and production.3. Cortisol: Cortisol is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal cortex. It is released in response to stress and low blood glucose levels. Cortisol increases blood glucose levels by promoting gluconeogenesis in the liver and inhibiting glucose uptake in peripheral tissues. This ensures that glucose is available for essential functions, such as maintaining brain function during periods of stress.4. Epinephrine  Adrenaline : Epinephrine is a hormone and neurotransmitter produced by the adrenal medulla and some neurons. It is released in response to stress, exercise, or low blood glucose levels. Epinephrine stimulates glycogenolysis, the breakdown of glycogen to glucose, in the liver and muscle cells. It also inhibits insulin secretion and stimulates glucagon secretion, resulting in increased blood glucose levels.5. Growth Hormone: Growth hormone is produced by the anterior pituitary gland and has various functions, including promoting growth and cell reproduction. It also has effects on glucose metabolism. Growth hormone opposes the action of insulin by reducing glucose uptake in peripheral tissues and promoting gluconeogenesis in the liver. This results in increased blood glucose levels.In summary, hormones regulate glucose levels in the blood by promoting glucose uptake, storage, and production or by inhibiting these processes. Insulin lowers blood glucose levels, while glucagon, cortisol, epinephrine, and growth hormone raise blood glucose levels. These hormones work together to maintain blood glucose levels within a narrow range, ensuring that the body has a constant supply of energy.

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