In: Biology
Glucagon serves to increase blood glucose concentrations by releasing glucose stored in liver cells into the blood. What is the function of its antagonist, insulin?
a. |
to increase blood glucose levels |
|
b. |
to decrease blood glucose levels |
|
c. |
to increase blood sodium levels |
|
d. |
to increase blood calcium levels |
Glucagon serves to increase blood glucose concentrations by releasing glucose stored in liver cells into the blood. the function of its antagonist, insulin is to decrease blood glucose levels.
Together, insulin and glucagon help maintain a state called homeostasis. This balance helps provide sufficient energy to the cells while preventing the nerve damage that can result from consistently high levels of blood sugar. Both help manage the blood glucose levels in the body but they have opposite effects.
Insulin is a protein-based hormone that is secreted by the beta cells inside the pancreas whenever the pancreas senses that the blood sugar is too high. Low levels of insulin are constantly being secreted into the bloodstream by the pancreas, even when blood glucose levels are normal.
When the body does not convert enough glucose, blood sugar levels remain high. Insulin helps the cells absorb glucose, reducing blood sugar and providing the cells with glucose for energy.
When blood sugar levels are too low, the pancreas releases glucagon. Glucagon instructs the liver to release stored glucose, which causes blood sugar to rise.