Lecture 11 - Glucose Regulation and Diabetes

Which cells produce glucagon?

alpha cells in pancreas

When is glucagon released?

when blood glucose is low

What is the main function of glucagon?

increase blood glucose

How does glucagon increase blood glucose?

stimulates glycogen breakdown, stops glycogen synthesis and signals liver to release glucose

How many amino acids does glucagon contain?

29

Which cells produce insulin?

beta cells in pancreas

When is insulin released?

when blood glucose is high

What is the main function of insulin?

lower blood glucose by stimulating cells to take up glucose

What processes does insulin promote?

glycogen synthesis, fuel storage, fat deposition and growth

What effect does insulin have on glucagon secretion?

decreases glucagon secretion

How many amino acids does insulin contain?

51

What type of hormone is insulin?

anabolic hormone that promotes biosynthesis and storage

Which tissues are highlighted as important for insulin-stimulated glucose uptake?

skeletal muscle and liver

What are two important functions of insulin besides lowering blood glucose?

promotes growth, drives biosynthesis and storage

What is diabetes mellitus associated with?

increased blood glucose

What does hyperglycaemia mean?

excess glucose in the blood

What can happen to glucose when blood glucose is too high?

glucose can appear in urine

What normal fasting blood glucose range is given in the lecture notes?

4.5-5 mm

What blood glucose level is listed as diabetic in the lecture notes?

above 11 mm

What proportion of diabetic deaths is linked to heart failure in the notes?

80%

What causes type 1 diabetes?

loss of beta cells and no insulin production

Why is type 1 diabetes called insulin-dependent?

body cannot produce insulin, so injections needed

When does type 1 diabetes commonly appear?

during childhood

What is the main problem in type 2 diabetes?

reduced glucose uptake because decreased response to insulin

What proportion of diabetes cases is type 2 diabetes in the lecture notes?

90%

Which factors are associated with type 2 diabetes in the lecture notes?

older age, obesity and stress

How might high fat content in the blood contribute to type 2 diabetes?

may alter cell signaling and glucose metabolism