Glucagon
A hormone produced by the pancreas that raises blood glucose levels by triggering the release of stored glucose from the liver. The counterbalance to insulin.
Used in the Books
This term appears in 2 chapters:
"...onse: 10-15 minutes at 50°F beneficial, 60+ minutes at 32°F (hypothermia) harmful Fasting (metabolic stress): - Blood glucose drops during fast (glucagon released, glycogen depleted, ketosis begins after 12-16 hours) - Adaptation: Mitochondrial biogenesis, autophagy, insulin sensitivity improves - Dose..."
"...egovy) illustrates this emergent innovation process. Semaglutide belongs to the class of GLP-1 receptor agonists - molecules that mimic the action of glucagon-like peptide-1, a natural hormone that stimulates insulin secretion, suppresses glucagon release, and slows gastric emptying."
Biological Context
When blood glucose drops, glucagon signals the liver to convert glycogen back to glucose and release it into the bloodstream. Glucagon and insulin work in opposition to maintain stable blood glucose. This hormonal seesaw is a classic example of homeostatic regulation.
Business Application
Glucagon-like business signals trigger release of stored resources during scarcity—drawing down reserves, liquidating assets, or calling in receivables. Healthy organizations balance storage (insulin) and release (glucagon) signals.