Regulation of Blood Glucose and Homeostasis

A set of flashcards covering key vocabulary terms related to blood glucose regulation and homeostasis.

Homeostasis

The process by which the body maintains a stable internal environment.

Physiological set-point

The target level that the body strives to maintain for various functions.

Negative feedback loop

A mechanism that counteracts a change in the body to maintain homeostasis.

Diabetes

A disease that disrupts the regulation of blood glucose levels.

Insulin

A hormone produced by the pancreas that helps cells absorb glucose.

Glucagon

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

Glycogen

A stored form of glucose in the liver and muscles.

Glycogenesis

The process of converting glucose to glycogen for storage.

Glycogenolysis

The breakdown of glycogen into glucose.

Hypoglycemia

A condition characterized by abnormally low levels of blood glucose.

Hyperglycemia

A condition characterized by abnormally high levels of blood glucose.

ATP

A molecule that provides energy for cellular processes.

Endocrine system

The system of glands that release hormones into the bloodstream.

Nervous system

The system of neurons that transmits signals throughout the body.

Insulin resistance

A condition where cells fail to respond to normal levels of insulin.

Beta cells

Cells in the pancreas that produce insulin.

Alpha cells

Cells in the pancreas that produce glucagon.

Cellular respiration

The process by which cells convert glucose and oxygen into energy.

Blood glucose levels

The concentration of glucose present in the blood.

Pancreas

An organ that regulates blood glucose levels through hormone secretion.

Set-point regulation

The mechanism by which the body maintains key physiological variables at a constant level.