The control of blood sugar

1

Blood sugar levels are higher than normal after a meal is digested.

2

islet cells in the pancreas are stimulated.

3

Insulin is secreted.

4

Insulin binds to a target cell’s receptor proteins.

(Liver and muscle) 5

6

There is then increased facilitated diffusion of glucose into the cells.

7

Glycogenesis in liver cells.

Increased respiration of glucose.

Increased fat production.

This then leads to…

8

Blood sugar level drops due to insulin’s effects.

10

islet cells stimulation is reduced.

11

Insulin secretion is reduced.

12

Blood glucose concentration drops below normal.

islet cells are stimulated by low blood sugar level.

13

Glucagon is secreted.

14

Glucagon binds to receptor proteins on liver cells.

15

Glycogenolysis takes place and glucose leaks out into bloodstream.

16

Protein and fat are metabolised to produce glucose by gluconeogenesis.

17

Blood sugar levels increase.

19

Glucagon stimulates insulin production to anticipate glucose level rising. 18