What Function Does the Pancreas Serve in a Negative Feedback System

The control of blood sugar (glucose) by insulin is a good example of a negative feedback mechanism. When blood sugar rises, receptors in the body sense a change. In turn, the control center (pancreas) secretes insulin into the blood effectively lowering blood sugar levels.

How does negative feedback work in the pancreas?

Once enough glucose has been taken up by your cells, your pancreas stops secreting insulin. It’s negative feedback! Negative feedback also helps you if your blood sugar gets too low. When this happens, your pancreas excretes a different hormone called glucagon.

How does the pancreas assist in negative feedback loops to maintain homeostasis?

For example, negative feedback loops involving insulin and glucagon help to keep blood glucose levels within a narrow concentration range. If glucose levels get too high, the body releases insulin into the bloodstream.