Regulating blood sugar

Question 1

Where is the Islet of Langerhans and what does it contain?

Answer 1

The Islet of Langerhans is located in the Pancreas. It contains Alpha and Beta cells, both of which are important for glucose regulation.

Question 2

What do Alpha and Beta cells produce?

Answer 2

Alpha cells produce Glucagons.
Beta cells produce insulin.

Question 3

What happens when there is high amounts of sugar in the blood?

Answer 3

Beta cells release Insulin.
Insulin causes muscles, cells, the liver and other organs to become more permeable to glucose.

the liver converts glucose to glycogen for future use.

Glucose in blood decreases.

Question 4

What happens in the case of low blood sugar?

Answer 4

When there is low blood sugar, alpha cells release Glucagon which stimulates the breakdown of glycogen into glucose.

The glucose brings blood sugar levels back to normal.

Question 5

Different between Type I/II diabetes?

Answer 5

T1 - ‘Juvenile’. Mostly hereditary. Beta cells are degenerated.

T2 - Most common form of diabetes. Insulin production decreases or ineffective (resistance).

Question 6

What is Hyperglycemia?

Answer 6

No insulin = blood sugar rises sharply to no end.

Kidneys are not able to reabsorb all the glucose hence urine gets saturated with glucose.

Vision problems, fatigue and weight loss (excessive urination as well).

Question 7

What is Hypoglycemia?

Answer 7

Low glucose levels. Can cause shaking, cold sweats, hunger and weakness.