Glucagon

Glucagon is a peptide hormone produced in the pancreas by ?-cells of the Islets of Langerhans. It has an important role in the maintenance of glucose homeostasis by increasing the concentration of glucose in the bloodstream. Glucagon is released in response to hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar levels, stimulating the conversion of stored glycogen into glucose which is released into the bloodstream. Glucagon also increases lipolysis, or the breakdown of stored fat, releasing fatty acids into the bloodstream. Glucagon is therefore used in the treatment of type 1 diabetes to regulate blood sugar levels, primarily in combination with insulin. It is also used to treat hypoglycemia in children and adults, as well as to aid in weight loss.