Glukagoni
Glukagoni is a peptide hormone produced by the alpha cells of the pancreas. It plays a crucial role in regulating blood glucose levels, acting in opposition to insulin. When blood glucose levels fall too low, known as hypoglycemia, the pancreas releases glucagon. Glucagon then travels to the liver, where it stimulates the breakdown of stored glycogen into glucose, a process called glycogenolysis. This newly released glucose enters the bloodstream, raising blood sugar levels back to a normal range. Glucagon also promotes gluconeogenesis, the synthesis of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources like amino acids and glycerol, further contributing to increased blood glucose. In essence, glucagon acts as a counter-regulatory hormone to insulin, ensuring that the body has a sufficient supply of glucose for energy, particularly between meals or during periods of fasting. Disruptions in glucagon secretion or action can lead to various metabolic disorders, including diabetes mellitus.