Feedback loops: Glucose and Glucogon

Homeostasis

The process of keeping internal conditions stable within the body.

Feedback Loop

A biological system where a change triggers a response to maintain balance.

Negative Feedback

A feedback mechanism that reverses a change to bring the body back to normal.

Blood Sugar (Glucose)

The main energy source carried in the blood.

Pancreas

The organ that detects blood sugar changes and releases hormones.

Insulin

Hormone released by the pancreas when blood sugar is high to lower glucose levels.

Glucagon

Hormone released by the pancreas when blood sugar is low to raise glucose levels.

Stimulus (High Blood Sugar)

Eating food

Stimulus (Low Blood Sugar)

Fasting or exercise

Response to High Blood Sugar

Pancreas releases insulin; cells absorb glucose; blood sugar decreases.

Response to Low Blood Sugar

Pancreas releases glucagon; liver releases stored glucose; blood sugar increases.

Liver

Organ that stores glucose as glycogen and releases it when glucagon signals.

Receptor

A sensor that detects changes in blood sugar levels.

Control Center

The pancreas

Effector

The cells or organs (like the liver and muscles) that act to restore balance.

Set Point

The normal range for blood sugar that the body tries to maintain.

Homeostasis Restored

When glucose levels return to normal