Gluconeogenesis Converts

Question

Gluconeogenesis converts
A) glucose to amino acids for protein synthesis.
B) glucose to fatty acids for storage of excess sugar as fat.
C) body protein to glucose in an insulin-deficient state.
D) ammonia to urea for excretion into the urine.

Accepted Answer

Gluconeogenesis is the process by which the body produces glucose from non-carbohydrate sources, such as amino acids. In an insulin-deficient state, such as a fasting state or in uncontrolled diabetes, gluconeogenesis is stimulated and body protein is broken down to provide amino acids for the conversion to glucose. Thus, choice C is the correct answer. Choices A and B are incorrect as they describe processes that are the opposite of gluconeogenesis (i.e. glycogenesis and lipogenesis) and choice D is incorrect as it describes a process unrelated to gluconeogenesis (i.e. urea formation for excretion of nitrogenous waste).