glucagonrelated

Glucagon-related refers to the hormones, receptors, and pharmacology connected with glucagon. Glucagon is a 29-amino-acid peptide produced by pancreatic alpha cells and acts primarily on the glucagon receptor, a G protein–coupled receptor in the liver. Receptor activation increases cyclic AMP and activates pathways that promote hepatic glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis, raising blood glucose. It also stimulates lipolysis and ketogenesis during fasting or energy shortage.

Regulation of glucagon secretion is multifactorial. Low blood glucose and rising amino acids stimulate release; insulin and somatostatin inhibit it. Catecholamines and stress can enhance secretion. The hormone functions as a counter-regulatory signal to insulin, helping maintain glucose homeostasis during fasting and supporting energy supply when glucose is scarce.

Clinically, glucagon is used to treat severe hypoglycemia, administered by injection or infusion when fast glucose is unavailable or when oral intake is not feasible. It can be life-saving in conscious- and unconscious patients with hypoglycemia. In certain overdoses, such as beta-adrenergic antagonists, glucagon may be given for its inotropic effects mediated by cAMP. Common side effects include nausea and vomiting.

Glucagon-related topics also include glucagonoma, a pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor that produces glucagon and can cause hyperglycemia and a characteristic rash. The glucagon gene also encodes other proglucagon-derived peptides, such as GLP-1, GLP-2, and oxyntomodulin, which link glucagon biology with incretin-based therapies. In diabetes research, scientists investigate glucagon receptor agonists and antagonists to modulate hepatic glucose output and overall glycemic control.