Control of blood glucose level by negative feedbach mechanism

When the blood glucose level goes up

·         Blood sugar (glucose) rises;

·         The pancreas detects the rise;

·         The pancreas pumps out insulin into the blood;

·         Insulin helps the uptake of glucose into muscles and other cells;

·         This causes the blood glucose level to fall to its normal set point; and

·         The pancreas detects the fall and switches off insulin production.

When the blood glucose level goes down

·         Blood sugar (glucose) drops;

·         The pancreas detects the drop in blood sugar;

·         The pancreas switches on the output of glucagon into the blood;

·         Glucagon signals the liver to break down glycogen into glucose;

·         The liver releases glucose into the bloodstream;

·         Blood glucose goes up to its normal set point; and

The pancreas detects the rise in blood sugar and switches off glucagon release

Questions? (Click "comments" and type your answers)

1. How does the body maintain its blood sugar level?
2. which hormone increases blood sugar level and which does decrease blood sugar level?
3. what is the function of the liver in the control of blood sugar level?

References:

• Learn. Genetics. Genetic Learning Science Center. (2011).Retrieved July 5, 2011, from http://learn.genetics.utah.edu/content/begin/cells/badcom/
• MyDr. Pancrease and insuline. (2003). Retrieved July 4, 2011, from http://www.mydr.com.au/gastrointestinal-health/pancreas-and-insulin