Glucagon Physiology and Pathophysiology

THE function of pancreatic glucagon has been questioned for several decades, but it now seems probable that glucagon, like insulin, is extremely important in the moment-to-moment control of the homeostasis of glucose, of certain amino acids and perhaps of free fatty acids. Normal alpha-cell function seems essential to optimal glucoregulation, and abnormal alpha-cell function may cause, contribute to or result from a variety of metabolic disorders, the most common being diabetes mellitus.Biologic Opposition of Glucagon and InsulinGlucagon has been shown to have potent glycogenolytic1 and gluconeogenic2 , 3 activity at concentrations within the physiologic range. In addition, it may have . . .