Homeostasis Internal (B3.4)

Glucoregulation

The process of maintaining stable blood glucose levels to support life processes

Homeostasis

Maintenance of a stable internal environment in an organism

Set point

The normal range of blood glucose levels (4.4–6.1 mmol/L)

Negative feedback

A mechanism that reverses a change to return conditions to the set point

Glucose

A simple sugar used as the primary energy source in respiration

Respiration

The process that releases energy (ATP) from glucose

ATP

The molecule used by cells for energy produced through respiration

Islets of Langerhans

Clusters of cells in the pancreas that detect and regulate blood glucose

Alpha cells

Pancreatic cells that detect low blood glucose and secrete glucagon

Beta cells

Pancreatic cells that detect high blood glucose and secrete insulin

Effector

Organs or tissues that respond to hormones to restore balance

Insulin

A hormone that lowers blood glucose levels

Glucagon

A hormone that raises blood glucose levels

Glycogen

A storage form of glucose found in liver and muscle cells

Glycogenesis

Conversion of glucose into glycogen for storage

Glycogenolysis

Breakdown of glycogen into glucose

Adipose tissue

Fat tissue that stores excess energy as fat

GLUT proteins

Transport proteins that allow glucose to enter cells

Hyperglycaemia

Condition of high blood glucose levels

Hypoglycaemia

Condition of low blood glucose levels

Stimulus

A change in blood glucose levels triggering a response

Glycogenolysis

The process of breaking down glycogen into glucose, primarily occurring in the liver and muscles.

Glycogenesis

The process of converting glucose into glycogen for storage in the liver and muscles. It is stimulated by insulin and helps regulate blood sugar levels.

Glycogen Synthase

A key enzyme involved in glycogenesis, facilitating the conversion of glucose into glycogen.

Glycogen Phosphorylase

An enzyme that catalyzes the breakdown of glycogen into glucose

GLUT-2 Channel Protein

A glucose transporter found in the liver that facilitates the diffusion of glucose

GLUT-4 Channel Proteiin

A glucose transporter primarily found in adipose tissues and muscle, allowing for insulin-dependent glucose uptake.