Blood Glucose Homeostasis and Feedback Loops

Blood Glucose Feedback Loop, Diabetes, Type 1 v. Type 2

Insulin and Glucose Uptake

• Insulin's Role:

  • Insulin binds to cell receptors.

  • This binding signals glucose transporter proteins.

  • These proteins move to the cell membrane.

  • They facilitate glucose entry into the cell.

Insulin and Glucagon in Homeostasis

• Insulin:

  • Lowers blood glucose levels.

  • Achieved through glucose uptake and storage.

• Glucagon:

  • Raises blood glucose levels.

  • Occurs by stimulating the breakdown of glycogen (glycogenolysis).

Feedback Type

• Negative Feedback:

  • The blood glucose control mechanism is a negative feedback loop.

  • It maintains homeostasis by counteracting deviations from the set point.

  • The stimulus is reduced to maintain equilibrium.

Positive vs. Negative Feedback

• Positive Feedback:

  • Amplifies the initial change or stimulus.

• Negative Feedback:

  • Reduces or counteracts the initial change, maintaining stability.