Blood sugar is regulated by two pancreatic hormones-insulin and glucagon. When blood sugar rises, insulin is released; it binds to receptors and, through signal transduction, results in an increase in glucose uptake by cells, which effectively lowers blood glucose levels. When blood sugar decreases, glucagon is released, binds to cell receptors, and causes glucose to be released into circulation, thereby increasing blood glucose levels. Diabetes mellitus is a disorder that results from excessively high levels of blood glucose. Type II diabetics have normal to elevated levels of insulin. What, then, might be causing their elevated blood glucose levels?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Type II diabetics have normal to elevated levels of insulin, indicating that insulin production is not inadequate. It is more likely that their elevated blood glucose levels are due to defective receptors, as the insulin is not effectively binding to the receptors and promoting glucose uptake into cells. Defects in the second messenger system or overproduction of glucagon are not typically associated with Type II diabetes.

Blood Sugar Is Regulated by Two Pancreatic Hormones-Insulin and Glucagon