Describe the involvement of insulin and glucagon. Involvement of Insulin and Glucagon in Blood Glucose Regulation: Insulin and glucagon are two critical hormones that work in tandem to regulate blood glucose levels in the body, ensuring that glucose remains within a stable range for optimal cellular function. Here's how these hormones are involved in the process: Insulin:      Release: Insulin is produced and released by the beta cells of the pancreas in response to elevated blood glucose levels, usually after consuming a meal that contains carbohydrates. Effect on Cells: When blood glucose levels rise, insulin is released into the bloodstream. It then binds to specific receptors on the surface of target cells, including muscle cells, liver cells, and adipose (fat) cells. Glucose Uptake: Insulin promotes glucose uptake by cells by increasing the number of glucose transporters (GLUT4) on the cell membranes. These transporters facilitate the entry of glucose into the cells from the bloodstream. Glycogen Synthesis: In the liver and muscle cells, insulin stimulates glycogen synthesis (glycogenesis), converting excess glucose into glycogen for storage. This process reduces blood glucose levels. Inhibition of Gluconeogenesis: Insulin inhibits the liver's production of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources (gluconeogenesis), which further helps lower blood glucose levels. Glucagon:     Release: Glucagon is produced and released by the alpha cells of the pancreas in response to low blood glucose levels, usually between meals or during periods of increased energy demand. Effect on Liver: Glucagon's primary target is the liver. It signals the liver to break down stored glycogen (glycogenolysis) into glucose molecules, which are then released into the bloodstream. Gluconeogenesis: Glucagon stimulates the liver to synthesize new glucose molecules from sources like amino acids and glycerol through gluconeogenesis. Blood Glucose Elevation: By promoting glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis, glucagon increases the amount of glucose available in the bloodstream, preventing hypoglycemia.  Fat Mobilization: In addition to its effects on blood glucose, glucagon stimulates the breakdown of stored fat (lipolysis) in adipose tissue, releasing fatty acids into the bloodstream for use as an energy source. Interplay and Balance: The interplay between insulin and glucagon is essential for maintaining blood glucose homeostasis:   After a meal, when blood glucose levels rise, insulin is released to facilitate the uptake and storage of glucose. Between meals or during periods of fasting, when blood glucose levels decrease, glucagon is released to ensure a continuous supply of glucose by mobilizing glycogen stores and promoting gluconeogenesis. The balance between these hormones ensures that blood glucose levels neither spike dangerously nor fall to levels that could impair cellular function. Disruption in the regulation of insulin and glucagon can lead to conditions like diabetes mellitus, where blood glucose control is impaired, highlighting the vital role these hormones play in overall metabolic health.