Feedback Loops: Glucose and Glucagon

What is the normal level of glucose in the blood?

99 MG/dL or lower.

What cells release glucagon?

Alpha Cells.

What cells release insulin?

Beta Cells.

What is the effect of glucagon?

Glucagon prevents your blood sugar from dropping too low.

What is the effect of insulin?

Insulin prevents your blood sugar from dropping too high.

Explain the relationship between the pancreas and homeostasis.

The hormones that the pancreas releases maintain blood sugar.

Where does the glucose that is released into the blood ultimately end up?

The liver and muscles.

Explain how the thermostat in your house uses a negative feedback system to maintain your home's temperature.

The thermostat in your house uses a negative feedback system to maintain your home's temperature because the temperature is going up and down and trying its best to reach target set point.

What would you expect to happen if your blood sugar was 120mg/100 mL? Be specific.

You would be diagnosed with pre-diabetes. Symptoms: Increased thirst. Frequent urination. Increased hunger. Fatigue. Blurred vision. Numbness or tingling in the feet or hands. Frequent infections. Slow-healing sores.

Why is the normal level of glucose in the blood called a set point?

Your blood sugar is balanced.

What happens when your blood sugar rises?

the pancreas releases insulin to cause the liver and body cells to take up glucose.