Question

What is gluconeogenesis? Choose one:

A. the synthesis of glucose from pyruvate
B. the blockage of glycolysis at the first step
C. the production of glucose from starch
D. the mobilization of glucose from glycogen stores

Answer 1

Gluconeogenesis is the synthesis of glucose from noncarbohydrate molecules like pyruvate and amino acids. It occurs primarily in the liver during periods of low glucose levels, ensuring key organs have enough glucose for energy. This process is essential for maintaining blood glucose concentration.

Step-by-step explanation:

Gluconeogenesis is the synthesis of new glucose molecules from pyruvate, lactate, glycerol, or the amino acids alanine or glutamine. This process takes place primarily in the liver during periods of low glucose, such as fasting, starvation, and low carbohydrate diets. Gluconeogenesis is important because certain organs, like the brain, can only use glucose as an energy source, so the body needs to maintain a minimum blood glucose concentration. When blood glucose falls below this level, the liver synthesizes new glucose to raise the blood concentration back to normal.