Kidneys synthesize glucose through a process called gluconeogenesis.
The kidneys play a crucial role in maintaining glucose levels in the body, and they achieve this through two primary mechanisms:
- Gluconeogenesis: The kidneys can synthesize new glucose molecules from non-carbohydrate precursors. This process is critical during fasting or prolonged periods without food, when the body needs glucose for energy.
- Glucose Reabsorption: Kidneys reabsorb glucose from the glomerular filtrate back into the bloodstream, preventing its loss in urine. This reabsorption process ensures that the body conserves glucose and minimizes its excretion.
Kidney's Role in Glucose Homeostasis
The kidneys are not only involved in glucose synthesis but also in glucose reabsorption. Here's a breakdown:
Gluconeogenesis in Kidneys
During times of low blood glucose, the kidneys contribute to raising blood sugar levels by producing new glucose. This process uses substrates like:
<ul>
<li>Lactate</li>
<li>Glutamine</li>
<li>Glycerol</li>
</ul>
<p>These are converted through several enzymatic reactions into glucose which is then released into the bloodstream. The reference states the kidney synthesizes new glucose molecules **via gluconeogenesis**.</p>Renal Glucose Reabsorption
In addition to gluconeogenesis, the kidneys also influence glucose homeostasis by reabsorbing glucose from the glomerular filtrate. This action prevents glucose loss in urine. The kidneys reabsorb glucose using specialized transport proteins in the renal tubules, ensuring the body conserves glucose and efficiently meets its energy demands.
The reference confirms, "the kidney can also influence glucose homeostasis by returning glucose to the circulation via the reabsorption of glucose from glomerular filtrate."
By combining gluconeogenesis and glucose reabsorption, the kidneys ensure a stable supply of glucose to the body.
