Week 5 metabolic and regulation processes Flashcards
metabolic and regulation processes (18 cards)
Give an example of a metabolic Disorder
Conditions like diabetes mellitus, metabolic syndrome, and phenylketonuria (PKU) involve disruptions in glucose, lipid, or amino acid metabolism, leading to abnormal blood sugar levels, dyslipidemia, or amino acid imbalances
Give an example of an endocrine disorder
Hormonal imbalances, such as thyroid disorders (hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism), adrenal disorders (Cushing’s syndrome or Addison’s disease), and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), can affect metabolism and regulatory processes.
Give an example of an Inborn Error of Metabolism
Genetic disorders like Tay-Sachs disease, Gaucher’s disease, and maple syrup urine disease (MSUD) are examples of inborn errors of metabolism where specific enzymes or metabolic pathways are impaired.
Give an example of an autoimmune condition
Autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus can disrupt the body’s regulatory mechanisms, leading to chronic inflammation and tissue damage.
Give an example of a neurological disorder
Conditions like epilepsy and Parkinson’s disease involve regulatory problems in the central nervous system, impacting neural signaling and coordination.
What is Diabetes Mellitus
Diabetes Mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterised by persistent high blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia).
The pathophysiology of diabetes involves a complex interplay of various factors, including genetics, lifestyle, and hormonal regulation
Explain Autoimmune Destruction of Beta Cells in T1DM
In T1DM, the immune system mistakenly identifies and attacks the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas located in the islets of Langerhans.
This autoimmune response leads to the progressive destruction of beta cells, resulting in a significant reduction or complete absence of insulin production.
As insulin production decreases, glucose cannot enter cells effectively, leading to elevated blood glucose levels.
Explain Insulin Deficiency in T1DM
The hallmark of T1DM is an absolute insulin deficiency.
Without insulin, cells cannot take up glucose from the bloodstream for energy, causing hyperglycemia.
Insulin is also essential for promoting the storage of excess glucose as glycogen in the liver and muscle cells.
Explain Increased Gluconeogenesis in T1DM
In the absence of insulin, the liver increases its production of glucose through a process called gluconeogenesis.
This contributes to elevated blood glucose levels.
Explain Ketone Production in T1DM
As glucose becomes less available for energy due to insulin deficiency, the body turns to fat breakdown for an alternative energy source.
This leads to the production of ketones, which can accumulate in the blood and cause diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a life-threatening condition.
Explain Insulin resistance in T2DM
T2DM is primarily characterized by insulin resistance, where the body’s cells become less responsive to the effects of insulin.
Insulin resistance is often associated with obesity, particularly abdominal obesity.
As cells resist insulin, glucose uptake is impaired, leading to elevated blood sugar levels.
Explain Beta Cell Dysfunction
in T2DM
In addition to insulin resistance, individuals with T2DM often experience impaired beta cell function.
Over time, the pancreas may produce less insulin, further exacerbating hyperglycemia.
Explain Hyperglycemia and Glucotoxicity in T2DM
Persistent hyperglycemia contributes to further insulin resistance and beta cell dysfunction, creating a vicious cycle.
Elevated glucose levels can also lead to glucotoxicity, causing damage to various tissues and organs in the body.
Explain Increased Hepatic Glucose Production in T2DM
The liver in individuals with T2DM often produces excessive amounts of glucose, contributing to elevated blood glucose levels.
Abnormal regulation of hormones like glucagon plays a role in this process.
Explain Incretin Hormones in T2DM
Incretin hormones, such as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP), play a role in glucose regulation.
In T2DM, there may be abnormalities in the secretion and response to these hormones.
Explain Amylin Dysfunction in T2DM
Amylin is a hormone co-secreted with insulin by beta cells. It helps regulate post-meal glucose levels by slowing gastric emptying and reducing food intake.
In T2DM, amylin dysfunction may contribute to postprandial hyperglycemia.
What is hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland produces an excess of thyroid hormones, primarily thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). Common symptoms include weight loss, increased heart rate, nervousness, irritability, heat intolerance, and sometimes bulging eyes (exophthalmos). Graves’ disease, an autoimmune disorder, is a common cause. Other causes include thyroid nodules or inflammation. Blood tests measuring T3, T4, and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels, along with imaging studies, help diagnose hyperthyroidism. Treatment options may include antithyroid medications, radioactive iodine therapy, or in some cases, surgery to remove part or all of the thyroid gland.
Define Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism results from an underactive thyroid gland, leading to insufficient production of thyroid hormones. Symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, dry skin, constipation, and in more severe cases, mental and physical sluggishness. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, an autoimmune condition, is a common cause. Other causes include thyroid surgery, radiation therapy, or certain medications. Blood tests measuring TSH, T3, and T4 levels help diagnose hypothyroidism. Treatment involves thyroid hormone replacement therapy with synthetic hormones such as levothyroxine, aiming to restore normal hormone levels.
