Insulin and Glucagon Overview

These flashcards cover key terms and definitions related to insulin, glucagon, diabetes, and glucose metabolism.

Insulin

A hormone released from the pancreas that lowers blood glucose levels.

Glucagon

A hormone released from the pancreas that raises blood glucose levels.

Glycogenolysis

The process of breaking down glycogen into glucose.

Gluconeogenesis

The creation of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources in the body.

Hypoglycemia

Low blood glucose levels, often below 65 mg/dL.

Hyperglycemia

High blood glucose levels, generally above 100 mg/dL.

Alpha cells

Cells in the pancreas that release glucagon.

Beta cells

Cells in the pancreas that produce and secrete insulin.

Type 1 Diabetes

A form of diabetes caused by the destruction of insulin-secreting beta cells in the pancreas.

Type 2 Diabetes

A form of diabetes characterized by insulin resistance, where cells do not respond effectively to insulin.

Insulin resistance

A condition in which cells in the body do not respond to insulin, leading to high blood sugar levels.

Hepatic glucose output

The liver's process of releasing glucose into the bloodstream.

Diabetes mellitus

A group of diseases that result in high blood sugar (too much glucose in the blood).

Metformin

A common medication used to treat type 2 diabetes that improves insulin sensitivity.

Glucose tolerance test

A test to measure the body's response to sugar, used to diagnose Type 2 Diabetes.