FRQ1. Discuss the role of insulin and glucagon in maintaining blood glucose levels. How do these hormones interact to keep blood sugar within a normal range?

Insulin and glucagon are two hormones that play a crucial role in maintaining blood glucose levels within a normal range. These hormones are produced by the pancreas and work in a complementary manner to regulate the concentration of glucose in the blood.Insulin is released by the pancreas in response to high levels of glucose in the blood, such as after a meal. Insulin helps to lower blood glucose levels by promoting the uptake of glucose into cells, particularly muscle and fat cells. This process is facilitated by insulin binding to receptors on the surface of these cells, which triggers a series of reactions that allow glucose to enter the cells. In addition, insulin also stimulates the liver to store glucose as glycogen, which further helps to lower blood glucose levels.On the other hand, glucagon is released by the pancreas in response to low levels of glucose in the blood, such as between meals or during physical activity. Glucagon stimulates the liver to break down glycogen into glucose, which is then released into the bloodstream to increase blood glucose levels. This process is facilitated by glucagon binding to receptors on the surface of liver cells, which triggers a series of reactions that lead to the breakdown of glycogen.In summary, insulin and glucagon work together to maintain blood glucose levels within a normal range. Insulin helps to lower blood glucose levels by promoting the uptake of glucose into cells and stimulating the liver to store glucose as glycogen. Glucagon, on the other hand, helps to increase blood glucose levels by stimulating the liver to break down glycogen into glucose. By working together, these hormones ensure that blood glucose levels remain within a narrow range, which is essential for the proper functioning of the body.