What is the role of insulin and glucagon in metabolism?

Insulin and glucagon are hormones that regulate the levels of glucose in the blood, maintaining metabolic balance.

Insulin and glucagon are two crucial hormones produced by the pancreas that play a significant role in metabolism, particularly in the regulation of blood glucose levels. They work in a complementary manner to ensure that the body has a steady supply of energy.

Insulin is produced by the beta cells of the pancreas and is released when blood glucose levels are high, such as after a meal. Its primary function is to facilitate the uptake of glucose into cells, especially muscle and fat cells. This process reduces the amount of glucose in the bloodstream, preventing hyperglycaemia (high blood sugar). Insulin also promotes the synthesis of glycogen, a storage form of glucose in the liver, and inhibits the breakdown of fats and proteins.

On the other hand, glucagon is produced by the alpha cells of the pancreas and is released when blood glucose levels are low, such as during fasting or between meals. Glucagon stimulates the breakdown of glycogen in the liver into glucose, which is then released into the bloodstream. This process increases blood glucose levels, preventing hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar). Glucagon also promotes the breakdown of fats in adipose tissue, releasing fatty acids into the bloodstream for use as an alternative energy source.

In essence, insulin and glucagon work together to maintain glucose homeostasis, ensuring that the body's cells have a constant supply of energy. When blood glucose levels rise, insulin is released to promote glucose uptake into cells and reduce blood glucose. Conversely, when blood glucose levels fall, glucagon is released to stimulate glucose production and release from the liver, increasing blood glucose. This balance between insulin and glucagon is crucial for maintaining metabolic health and energy balance in the body.