Glucagon

Glucagon is a peptide hormone produced by the alpha cells of the pancreas. It plays a crucial role in regulating blood glucose levels. Glucagon acts in opposition to insulin, another pancreatic hormone, by stimulating the liver to convert stored glycogen into glucose and releasing it into the bloodstream. This process, known as glycogenolysis, helps raise blood sugar levels when they fall too low, ensuring that cells have an adequate supply of energy. Glucagon also promotes gluconeogenesis, the synthesis of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources like amino acids and glycerol.