noun
- the metabolic process by which glucose is synthesized from non-carbohydrate precursors, such as lactate, pyruvate, and amino acids, primarily in the liver and kidneys
Usage: biochemistry term; occurs mainly during fasting or starvation to maintain blood glucose levels
Examples
- During fasting, gluconeogenesis becomes the primary pathway for maintaining blood glucose levels.
- The liver performs gluconeogenesis to convert amino acids into glucose when carbohydrate stores are depleted.
- Gluconeogenesis is essential for survival during prolonged periods without food intake.
- Hormones like glucagon and cortisol stimulate gluconeogenesis in response to low blood sugar.
- Athletes may experience increased gluconeogenesis during intense endurance exercise when glycogen stores run low.