Tissue/Organ-Level Integration
Start with the big picture
In early fasting, liver glycogenolysis is the main source of blood glucose, while gluconeogenesis begins using lactate, alanine, and glycerol. As fasting continues and glycogen reserves decline, gluconeogenesis and ketone production become more important. Adipose tissue releases fatty acids and glycerol; muscle initially supplies gluconeogenic amino acids, then reduces proteolysis as it uses fatty acids and ketones. The brain gradually increases its use of ketones, while red blood cells and the renal medulla continue to depend on glycolysis. The kidney also contributes to gluconeogenesis and helps buffer acid load. Hormonal changes coordinate these shifts, supporting glucose supply and protein sparing. The lesson also considers the plasma fuel sequence, nitrogen changes, acid–base balance, and refeeding risk.
What you'll learn
- Describe the liver’s changing roles in glucose and ketone production during fasting.
- Explain how adipose tissue and skeletal muscle contribute fuels and gluconeogenic substrates.
- Compare fuel use by the brain, heart, red blood cells, and renal tissues.
- Summarize hormonal, nitrogen, and acid–base adaptations during prolonged fasting.
- Identify the metabolic concern associated with refeeding after starvation.
Continue your study
Work through the complete notes and reinforce the topic with the study tools available in the full lesson.