Insulin and Glucagon Regulating Carbohydrate Metabolism

Insulin and
Glucagon:
Regulating
Carbohydrate
Metabolism
Insulin and glucagon are two crucial hormones that regulate blood glucose
levels. They work together to maintain a stable energy supply for the body,
ensuring that cells receive the glucose they need for proper function.
Role of Insulin in Carbohydrate Metabolism
1 Glucose Uptake 2 Glycogen Synthesis
Insulin acts like a key, unlocking cell membranes to allow Insulin promotes the storage of excess glucose as glycogen in
glucose to enter and fuel cellular processes. the liver and muscles, preventing high blood sugar levels.
3 Fat Synthesis 4 Protein Synthesis

When glucose levels are high, insulin directs the body to store Insulin supports protein synthesis, essential for building and
excess energy as fat. repairing tissues.
Insulin Secretion and
Regulation
1 Glucose Detection
Beta cells in the pancreas sense elevated blood glucose levels.
2 Insulin Synthesis and Release

Beta cells synthesize and release insulin into the bloodstream.
3 Blood Glucose Reduction

Insulin's action lowers blood glucose levels, signaling the beta
cells to reduce insulin secretion.
Insulin Signaling Pathway
Insulin Binding
Insulin binds to its receptor on target cells.
Signal Transduction
The receptor triggers a cascade of intracellular signaling
events.
Cellular Response
Signaling pathways lead to glucose uptake, glycogen
synthesis, and other metabolic effects.
Insulin's Effects on Glucose Uptake and Storage
Glucose Transport Glycogen Synthesis Fat Synthesis
Insulin increases the number of glucose Insulin activates enzymes involved in Insulin promotes the conversion of
transporters on cell membranes, converting glucose into glycogen for excess glucose into fatty acids for
allowing more glucose to enter cells. storage in the liver and muscles. storage in adipose tissue.
Role of Glucagon in
Carbohydrate Metabolism
1 Glycogenolysis 2 Gluconeogenesis
Glucagon stimulates the breakdown Glucagon promotes the synthesis of
of glycogen in the liver, releasing new glucose from non-
glucose into the bloodstream. carbohydrate sources like amino
acids and glycerol, ensuring a
continuous supply of glucose when
glycogen stores are depleted.
3 Lipolysis 4 Blood Glucose Elevation

Glucagon stimulates the breakdown Glucagon's actions elevate blood
of fat stores, releasing fatty acids for glucose levels, providing energy to
energy production. the body, especially during fasting
or exercise.
Glucagon Secretion and
Regulation
1 Glucose Detection
Alpha cells in the pancreas sense low blood glucose levels.
2 Glucagon Synthesis and Release

Alpha cells synthesize and release glucagon into the
bloodstream.
3 Blood Glucose Elevation

Glucagon's action elevates blood glucose levels, signaling the
alpha cells to reduce glucagon secretion.
Glucagon's Effects on Glucose Production and
Release
Glycogenolysis Breakdown of glycogen into glucose
Gluconeogenesis Synthesis of new glucose from non-carbohydrate sources
Lipolysis Breakdown of fat into fatty acids for energy production

Imbalance Between Insulin and
Glucagon in Diabetes
Type 1 Diabetes
The body's immune system attacks and destroys beta cells, resulting in insufficient insulin production.
Type 2 Diabetes
Cells become resistant to insulin's effects, leading to impaired glucose uptake and increased blood sugar
levels.
Consequences of Imbalance
Uncontrolled blood sugar levels can lead to various health complications, including cardiovascular
disease, nerve damage, and kidney failure.
Importance of Maintaining
Insulin-Glucagon Balance
Energy Homeostasis Preventing
Complications
Maintaining balanced insulin
and glucagon levels ensures Proper insulin-glucagon
that cells receive a steady balance helps prevent the
supply of glucose for energy development of chronic health
production. problems associated with
diabetes.
Overall Health
Balanced glucose metabolism contributes to overall health and well-
being by supporting optimal cellular function.

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Insulin and

3 Fat Synthesis 4 Protein Synthesis

2 Insulin Synthesis and Release

3 Blood Glucose Reduction

3 Lipolysis 4 Blood Glucose Elevation

2 Glucagon Synthesis and Release

3 Blood Glucose Elevation

Gluconeogenesis Synthesis of new glucose from non-carbohydrate sources

Lipolysis Breakdown of fat into fatty acids for energy production

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