Moderate

Type II diabetes results from prolonged overstimulation of the pancreatic beta cells as a result of obesity and chronically elevated glucose levels. After the beta cells have been overactive for an extended period of time, they begin functioning poorly and the person is considered diabetic. In a type II diabetes, what are the expected levels of insulin and glucagon with respect to normal values?

Correct answer: D. Insulin levels will be low and glucagon levels will be elevated

  • A. Insulin levels will be elevated and glucagon levels will be low
  • B. Insulin levels will be low and glucagon levels will be low
  • C. Insulin levels will be elevated and glucagon levels will be elevated
  • D. Insulin levels will be low and glucagon levels will be elevated

Explanation

Type II diabetes results from an eventual lack of function of the pancreatic beta cells. The first step to this problem is remembering that the beta cells produce insulin. If the beta cells do not function, insulin levels will be decreased. The second step to this problem is remembering that insulin and glucagon have contrasting actions in the regulation of blood glucose levels. They act in a negative feedback loop: insulin inhibits glucagon release, and glucagon inhibits insulin release. If insulin levels are low, then glucagon will no longer be inhibited. As a result, we would observe low levels of insulin and elevated levels of glucagon.

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