What is the role of glucagon in the body?

Glucagon plays a crucial role in the regulation of blood sugar levels, specifically by increasing them. It is a hormone produced by the alpha cells of the pancreas and is essential in maintaining glucose homeostasis in the body. When blood sugar levels drop, glucagon is secreted into the bloodstream.

The primary action of glucagon is to stimulate the liver to convert stored glycogen into glucose through a process known as glycogenolysis. This released glucose then enters the bloodstream, raising blood sugar levels back to a normal range. Additionally, glucagon promotes gluconeogenesis, the process of synthesizing glucose from non-carbohydrate sources, which further aids in increasing blood glucose levels when needed.

Understanding the role of glucagon is vital for recognizing how the body manages energy reserves and responds to periods of fasting or decreased food intake. This hormone works in opposition to insulin, which lowers blood sugar levels, illustrating the balance between these two hormones in metabolic regulation.