Question 1

The sulfonylurea class of medications:&#10;A) Stimulates exocytosis of insulin-containing vesicles&#10;B) Slows the hydrolysis of glucose in the plasma&#10;C) Speeds potassium transport into insulin-containing cells&#10;D) Are analogs of incretin hormones&#10;E) Increases insulin sensitivity

Accepted Answer

All of the sulfonylureas promote insulin release by binding to the sulfonylurea subunit (SUR1) of the SUR1/K_ir6.2 ATP-sensitive K⁺ channel. Binding inhibits channel conductance, resulting in partial depolarization of the membrane and activation of voltage-sensitive calcium channels. The resulting increase in cytosolic calcium promotes exocytosis of the secretory granules containing insulin.

Question 2

The incretins are a group of hormones that:&#10;A) Increase the concentration of gastric inhibitory peptide&#10;B) Stimulate the release of growth hormone&#10;C) Stimulate pancreatic beta cells and inhibit pancreatic alpha cells&#10;D) Are synthesized in the pituitary gland&#10;E) Increase blood glucose levels

Accepted Answer

Incretins stimulate the β cells to produce insulin and impair the ability of the α cells to secrete glucagon, particularly when circulating levels of glucose are high.

Deck 43: Insulin and Drugs Used in the Therapy of Diabetes Mellitus