How Do You Spell GLUCAGON?

Pronunciation: [ɡlˈuːkəɡən] (IPA)

Glucagon is a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels in the human body. The word "glucagon" is spelled with a hard "g" sound at the beginning, as in "goat". It is followed by the "l" sound, then the "u" sound as in "put", and the "k" sound as in "kite". The stress is on the second syllable, which is pronounced with the "a" sound as in "cat". The final syllable is pronounced with the "on" sound as in "don". The IPA transcription for "glucagon" is /ˈɡluːkəɡɒn/.

Meaning and Definition
Common Misspellings
Etymology
Similar spelling words
Plural
Basic Check Advanced Check

GLUCAGON Meaning and Definition

  1. Glucagon is a hormone produced by the alpha cells of the pancreas that plays a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels. It serves as a counter-regulatory hormone to insulin, meaning it has the opposite effect on glucose metabolism. When blood sugar levels are low, glucagon is released, stimulating the liver to convert stored glycogen into glucose and release it into the bloodstream. This process, called glycogenolysis, increases blood sugar levels and provides a source of energy for the body.

    Glucagon also promotes gluconeogenesis, which involves the production of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources such as amino acids and fats. By stimulating this process, glucagon helps elevate blood sugar levels even further.

    Furthermore, glucagon has additional effects on various organs. It exerts a positive inotropic effect on the heart, increasing its force of contraction. Glucagon also relaxes smooth muscles in the gastrointestinal tract and decreases gastric acid secretion.

    The main physiological function of glucagon is to prevent hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar levels, by mobilizing stored glucose and enhancing its production. This hormone is essential in maintaining glucose homeostasis and is vital for the overall balance of the body's energy metabolism.

Common Misspellings for GLUCAGON

Etymology of GLUCAGON

The word "glucagon" is derived from the combination of two Greek words: "glykys" meaning "sweet" or "sugar" and "agon" meaning "to lead or produce". Therefore, "glucagon" can be translated as "leading to glucose" or "producing glucose". This reflects the function of the hormone glucagon, which stimulates the liver to convert stored glycogen into glucose, thus increasing blood sugar levels.

Similar spelling words for GLUCAGON

Plural form of GLUCAGON is GLUCAGONS

Infographic

Correct spelling for glucagon
Add the infographic to your website: