Question

Using a specific example, describe how two hormones can work antagonistically to affect the target organ.

Predict how physiology is altered at the cellular and organismal level if a person is deficient in one of these hormones.

Answer 1

Insulin and glucagon work antagonistically to manage blood glucose levels; a deficiency in insulin can lead to type 1 diabetes with symptoms arising from high blood sugar due to reduced glucose uptake by liver, muscle, and fat cells.

Step-by-step explanation:

An example of how two hormones can work antagonistically to affect a target organ is through the actions of insulin and glucagon, which regulate blood glucose levels. Insulin, produced by the pancreas, promotes the uptake of glucose from the bloodstream into the liver, muscle, and fat cells where it is stored as glycogen, thus lowering blood glucose levels. Conversely, glucagon stimulates the liver to convert stored glycogen back into glucose, which is then released into the bloodstream to raise blood glucose levels.

If a person is deficient in insulin, a condition known as type 1 diabetes may occur. At the cellular level, cells in the liver, muscle, and fat tissue would have reduced glucose uptake due to the absence of insulin's signaling, leading to high blood sugar levels. At the organismal level, this can cause symptoms such as increased thirst, frequent urination, and severe long-term complications if left untreated.