# Describe the role of glucagon in maintaining a constant blood glucose concentration when a person has not eaten for several hours.

> Eduqas GCSE Biology — 2.5.2 Hormonal coordination · Describe · 4 marks

> Blood glucose concentration must be kept within narrow limits to ensure cells have a constant supply of glucose for respiration. The hormone glucagon plays a key role in this process.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Low blood glucose concentration is detected by the pancreas
2. The pancreas secretes/releases glucagon into the blood
3. Glucagon causes the liver to convert glycogen into glucose (glycogen breakdown)
4. Glucose is released into the blood, raising blood glucose concentration back to normal

## Key terms

- [glucagon](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/glucagon)
- [blood glucose concentration](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/blood-glucose-concentration)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/describe-the-role-of-glucagon-in-cd247142) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.