Which organ plays a significant role in regulating hormone levels related to glucose?

Prepare for the Laboratory Animal Technician (LAT) Test with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Each question offers hints and explanations to ensure thorough understanding. Gear up for success in your exam journey!

The pancreas plays a crucial role in regulating hormone levels related to glucose, primarily through the production of insulin and glucagon. Insulin is secreted in response to high blood sugar levels; it facilitates the uptake of glucose into the cells for energy and storage. Glucagon, on the other hand, is released when blood glucose levels are low, stimulating the liver to release stored glucose into the bloodstream. This intricate balance maintained by the pancreatic hormones is essential for glucose homeostasis in the body.

While the liver, kidneys, and gallbladder have important functions in the body's overall metabolic processes, they do not directly regulate hormone levels related to glucose in the way the pancreas does. The liver stores and releases glucose and responds to hormonal signals but does not itself produce insulin or glucagon. The kidneys play roles in filtration and fluid balance and can influence glucose levels through processes like gluconeogenesis, but they are not the primary regulators of blood sugar. The gallbladder primarily stores bile for fat digestion, which does not involve regulating glucose levels. Therefore, the pancreas is the key organ for managing the hormonal control of glucose metabolism.

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