Anatomy Practice Exam

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Study for the Anatomy Exam with flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Each question includes hints and explanations. Prepare confidently!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

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What is the main function of insulin?

To increase blood glucose levels
To stimulate lymphocyte production
To regulate water balance
To facilitate glucose uptake into tissues

The correct answer is: To facilitate glucose uptake into tissues

Insulin plays a crucial role in glucose metabolism, primarily by facilitating the uptake of glucose into various tissues, particularly muscle and adipose (fat) tissue. When blood glucose levels rise after eating, the pancreas releases insulin to help cells absorb glucose from the bloodstream, thus lowering blood sugar levels. This process is vital for providing energy to cells and maintaining overall metabolic homeostasis. By enhancing the transport of glucose into cells, insulin also encourages the storage of excess glucose in the form of glycogen in the liver and promotes the conversion of glucose into fatty acids for energy storage in adipose tissue. This regulatory function is essential for preventing hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) and ensuring that the body has a steady supply of energy available for cellular functions.