🥸intro to psychology review

key term - Glucagon

Definition

Glucagon is a hormone produced by the pancreas that plays a crucial role in regulating blood glucose levels. It is the counterpart to insulin, working to increase blood sugar when it drops too low.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. Glucagon is secreted by the alpha cells of the pancreatic islets of Langerhans when blood sugar levels drop.
  2. The primary function of glucagon is to raise blood glucose levels by stimulating the liver to break down stored glycogen and release glucose into the bloodstream.
  3. Glucagon also promotes the conversion of amino acids and fats into glucose through the processes of gluconeogenesis and glycogenolysis.
  4. Insufficient glucagon production or action can lead to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), while excessive glucagon can contribute to hyperglycemia (high blood sugar).
  5. Glucagon is an important counterregulatory hormone to insulin, working to maintain glucose homeostasis and prevent dangerously low blood sugar levels.

Review Questions

  • Explain the role of glucagon in regulating blood glucose levels.
    • Glucagon plays a crucial role in maintaining blood glucose homeostasis by stimulating the liver to break down stored glycogen and release glucose into the bloodstream when blood sugar levels drop. When blood glucose levels fall, glucagon is secreted by the pancreas, triggering the liver to undergo glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis to increase circulating glucose. This helps prevent hypoglycemia and ensures the body has a sufficient supply of glucose to meet its energy needs.
  • Describe the relationship between glucagon and insulin in regulating blood sugar.
    • Glucagon and insulin work in a counterregulatory manner to maintain blood glucose levels within a healthy range. Insulin promotes the uptake and storage of glucose in cells, lowering blood sugar levels, while glucagon stimulates the release of glucose from the liver, raising blood sugar levels. The balance between these two hormones is essential for glucose homeostasis. Dysregulation of this balance, such as insufficient insulin production or excessive glucagon secretion, can lead to conditions like diabetes and hyperglycemia.
  • Analyze the potential consequences of imbalances in glucagon production or action.
    • Imbalances in glucagon production or action can have significant consequences for an individual's health. Insufficient glucagon secretion or action can result in hypoglycemia, where blood glucose levels drop dangerously low, leading to symptoms like fatigue, confusion, and seizures. Conversely, excessive glucagon production or sensitivity can contribute to hyperglycemia, characterized by abnormally high blood sugar levels. Chronic hyperglycemia is a hallmark of diabetes and can increase the risk of various complications, such as nerve damage, kidney disease, and cardiovascular problems. Understanding the critical role of glucagon in maintaining glucose homeostasis is essential for managing conditions related to blood sugar dysregulation.