Module 3-biological functions of gluconeogenisis

Question 1

what is the primary function of gluconeogenesis in animals

Answer 1

to assist in maintaining adequate glucose levels in the blood

Question 2

why is maintaining adequate glucose in the blood so important

Answer 2

there are organs and cells in our bodies that depend on glucose as there primary fuel

Question 3

what is the biggest consumer of glucose

Answer 3

the brain

Question 4

what do our brains use when glucose is short in supply

Answer 4

ketone bodies

Question 5

because our brains and muscles rely so heavily on glucose when is gluconeogenesis particularly important

Answer 5

during periods of fasting
eg when you are sleeping or starvation

Question 6

where does gluconeogenesis occur in animals

Answer 6

only in the liver and kidney with the liver being the larges contributor

Question 7

what happens when the liver or kidney produces glucose

Answer 7

the molec passes across the cell membrane into the blood so that other tissues such as the brain can extract it to meet there metobolic demands

Question 8

what happens to most of the glucose produced in plants

Answer 8

it is used to synthesize starch, cellulose and sucrose