The role of incretins in insulin secretion

Abstract

The maintenance of the plasma glucose concentration is a critical bodily function. Hyperglycemia is associated with long-term micro- and macrovascular complications, while hypoglycemia can lead to serious injury to the brain, which is dependent on plasma glucose as a fuel source. At any given time the body's plasma glucose concentration is a balance between the relative rates of glucose appearance and disappearance. These rates are regulated by several key organs through the actions of multiple hormonal signals. A brief introduction follows; however, for more detailed information, see Chapter 2. © 2010 Springer-Verlag US.