# Explain how the nervous system and endocrine system work together to maintain blood glucose concentration within a normal range after a carbohydrate-rich meal.

> IB DP Biology Standard Level (2023 syllabus) — C3.1 Integration of body systems · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Rising blood glucose is detected by receptors / beta cells in the islets of Langerhans in the pancreas
2. Beta cells secrete insulin into the blood / respond by releasing insulin as a hormonal signal
3. Insulin acts on liver cells / hepatocytes and muscle cells, stimulating uptake of glucose and its conversion to glycogen (glycogenesis)
4. The nervous system (autonomic / hypothalamus) also contributes by regulating satiety / gastric activity / stimulating insulin release via the vagus nerve, illustrating integration of both systems

## Related

- [Revision notes for IB DP Biology Standard Level (2023 syllabus)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
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