Glucagon is a peptide hormone produced by alpha cells of pancreas. It raises the concentration of glucose (by breaking down glycogen which is the stored glucose) , fatty acids and proteins during short carbohydrate depletion periods . Its effect is opposite to insulin, which clears the blood from glucose.
Interpretation: The brain has an absolute dependence of glucose for energy because neurons cannot utilize fatty acids as the energy source. If there is glucagon depletion, immediate glucose should be taken or administered. Low levels of glucagon are rare, but the main result is low glucose. If glucagon is high, this means that diabetes like symptoms will be observed, because of high glucose levels. This may be caused by glucagonoma which is a tumor of pancreas.
Sample: Arm vein blood. Fasting
Working day: Wednesday
Result Time: 2 weeks(Consult the laboratory)
