A 60-year-old man is seen in the emergency room.He is disoriented and complains of fatigue and weakness.A physical examination reveals signs of alcohol abuse and a hardened liver.Blood tests reveal hypoglycemia.Loss of the function of which hepatic cell type probably accounts for his inability to maintain normal plasma levels of glucose?
A)Endothelial cells
B)Kupffer's cells
C)Stellate cells
D)Hepatocytes
E)Cholangiocytes

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Hepatocytes are responsible for the regulation of glucose levels in the bloodstream through glycogen storage and gluconeogenesis. In individuals with a hardened liver due to alcohol abuse, the loss of functional hepatocytes can lead to hypoglycemia. Endothelial cells, Kupffer's cells, Stellate cells, and Cholangiocytes do not play a significant role in glucose regulation.

A 60-Year-Old Man Is Seen in the Emergency Room