Gluconeogenesis

Definition

Gluconeogenesis is the process by which the body produces glucose from non-carbohydrate sources, ensuring a continued supply of energy when dietary carbohydrates are not available.

Scientific / Technical Definition

Gluconeogenesis is a metabolic pathway that results in the generation of glucose from certain non-carbohydrate carbon substrates, including lactate, glycerol, and glucogenic amino acids. This process primarily occurs in the liver and to a lesser extent in the cortex of the kidneys. It is critical for maintaining normal blood sugar levels, especially during fasting or intense exercise.

Benefits

• Helps maintain blood glucose levels during fasting or low carbohydrate intake.
• Contributes to energy supply when dietary carbohydrates are scarce.
• Supports overall metabolic flexibility, allowing the body to adapt to different nutritional states.

Examples

• Liver converting lactate from muscle activity back into glucose.
• The production of glucose from amino acids during fasting periods.

Additional Information

• Importance: Gluconeogenesis is crucial during prolonged exercise, starvation, or low-carbohydrate diets because it ensures a steady supply of glucose to tissues that depend on it heavily, such as the brain and red blood cells.

Related Terms

• Glycolysis
• Glycogenolysis
• Gluconeogenic Amino Acids
• Metabolism
• Ketogenesis

References

• Biochemistry, Gluconeogenesis
• Role of Gluconeogenesis in maintaining glucose homeostasis