Which hormones are primarily responsible for regulating blood glucose levels?

Insulin and glucagon play crucial roles in maintaining blood glucose levels within a narrow range, essential for proper physiological functioning. Insulin is produced by the beta cells of the pancreas and facilitates the uptake of glucose from the bloodstream into cells, particularly in muscle and adipose tissue, thus lowering blood glucose levels. It promotes the storage of glucose as glycogen in the liver and muscle, and also encourages the conversion of glucose into fat for long-term energy storage.

On the other hand, glucagon, produced by the alpha cells of the pancreas, has the opposite effect. When blood glucose levels drop, glucagon stimulates the liver to break down glycogen back into glucose and release it into the bloodstream, thereby raising blood glucose levels. This interplay between insulin and glucagon ensures that the body can efficiently manage energy needs and maintain homeostasis.

Other hormones can influence glucose metabolism, but they are not primarily responsible for directly regulating blood glucose levels like insulin and glucagon. For instance, cortisol and adrenaline can increase blood glucose levels in response to stress but are not the main regulators under normal physiological conditions.