Living Environment Regents Practice Test

How might having too few insulin receptors affect glucose levels in the blood?

1. Glucose levels would decrease dramatically.

2. Glucose levels would remain regulated.

3. Glucose levels could increase significantly.

4. Glucose would be stored in muscle cells.

The correct answer is: Glucose levels could increase significantly.

Having too few insulin receptors can significantly impact glucose levels in the blood because insulin plays a crucial role in facilitating the uptake of glucose into cells. When insulin binds to its receptors on the surface of cells, it triggers a series of reactions that allow glucose to be absorbed from the bloodstream into the cells, especially muscle and fat cells, where it can be used for energy or stored for later use. If there are insufficient insulin receptors, the cells are less responsive to insulin, leading to a reduced ability to take up glucose. Consequently, glucose remains in the bloodstream, resulting in elevated blood glucose levels. This condition can lead to hyperglycemia, which is often associated with diabetes. The other choices do not accurately represent the physiological consequences of having too few insulin receptors. For example, while some may suggest that glucose levels would decrease or remain regulated, neither reflects the reality of impaired insulin signaling. The statement about glucose being stored in muscle cells is also incorrect because insufficient insulin receptors would lead to decreased glucose uptake, preventing proper storage mechanisms from functioning effectively. Overall, the presence of too few insulin receptors primarily leads to increased glucose levels in the blood.