**Core Concept**
In the context of glucose metabolism, the insulin/glucagon ratio is a critical determinant of glucose homeostasis. Insulin and glucagon are two key hormones produced by the pancreas, with insulin promoting glucose uptake and glucagon stimulating glucose release from storage sites.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
When the insulin/glucagon ratio is low, it indicates a predominance of glucagon over insulin. This leads to increased glucose release from the liver, primarily through glycogenolysis (the breakdown of glycogen to glucose) and gluconeogenesis (the synthesis of glucose from non-carbohydrate precursors). This process is facilitated by the activation of key enzymes such as glucose-6-phosphatase and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK), as well as the inhibition of glycolysis. The low insulin/glucagon ratio also promotes lipolysis, leading to increased free fatty acid release.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** This option is not directly related to the insulin/glucagon ratio and glucose metabolism. It is a distractor and does not accurately describe a process that occurs in low insulin/glucagon ratio.
* **Option B:** This option is incorrect because it describes a process that occurs in high insulin/glucagon ratio, where insulin promotes glucose uptake and storage, rather than release.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
In clinical practice, a low insulin/glucagon ratio is often seen in stress conditions such as fasting, starvation, or critical illness. This can lead to hyperglycemia and increased glucose production from the liver.
**Correct Answer: C. Increased glucose release from the liver through glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis.**
Free Medical MCQs Β· NEET PG Β· USMLE Β· AIIMS
Access thousands of free MCQs, ebooks and daily exams.
By signing in you agree to our Privacy Policy.