This definitions covers Key Definitions within Glucose Regulation for GCSE Biology. Topic 6: Glucose Regulation It is section 9 of 15 in this topic. Make sure you can use the exact wording confidently, because definition marks are often lost through vague language.
Topic position
Section 9 of 15
Practice
15 questions
Recall
20 flashcards
Key Definitions
Blood glucose concentration: The amount of glucose dissolved in the blood plasma, normally maintained within the range of approximately 4–7 mmol/L.
Insulin: A hormone produced by beta cells in the pancreas that lowers blood glucose by causing liver and muscle cells to take up glucose and convert it to glycogen for storage.
Glucagon: A hormone produced by alpha cells in the pancreas that raises blood glucose by stimulating the liver to break down glycogen into glucose and release it into the blood.
Glycogen: A polysaccharide storage carbohydrate made from glucose; stored in liver and muscle cells; can be broken down back to glucose when blood glucose is low.
Pancreas: A gland that acts as both receptor and coordination centre for blood glucose regulation; contains alpha cells (secrete glucagon) and beta cells (secrete insulin) in the islets of Langerhans.
Type 1 diabetes: A condition in which the immune system destroys the beta cells of the pancreas, so no insulin is produced; managed with insulin injections.
Type 2 diabetes: A condition in which body cells become resistant to insulin (do not respond normally); linked to obesity and lifestyle; managed through diet, exercise, and sometimes medication.