How does the feedback control system for insulin production work?

Answer 1

The control of blood glucose levels operates by what is known as a negative feedback mechanism. Here is a summary of the 2 control loops.

When the blood glucose level goes up

• Blood sugar (glucose) rises;
• The pancreas detects the rise;
• The pancreas pumps out insulin into the blood;
• Insulin helps the uptake of glucose into muscles and other cells;
• This causes the blood glucose level to fall to its normal set point; and
• The pancreas detects the fall and switches off insulin production.

When the blood glucose level goes down

• Blood sugar (glucose) drops;
• The pancreas detects the drop in blood sugar;
• The pancreas switches on the output of glucagon into the blood;
• Glucagon signals the liver to break down glycogen into glucose;
• The liver releases glucose into the bloodstream;
• Blood glucose goes up to its normal set point; and
• The pancreas detects the rise in blood sugar and switches off glucagon release.

Answer 2

The feedback control system for insulin production involves monitoring blood glucose levels. When blood glucose levels rise (e.g., after a meal), the pancreas releases insulin to help cells absorb glucose, thus lowering blood glucose levels. Conversely, when blood glucose levels drop, insulin production decreases to prevent hypoglycemia. This feedback loop helps maintain blood glucose levels within a specific range in the body.