How glucagon and insulin work together to manage blood sugar levels after meals

Glucagon and insulin act cooperatively in the regulation of prandial hepatic glycogen metabolism

NIH-funded research University of Washington · NIH-10890769

This study looks at how two important hormones, glucagon and insulin, work together to manage blood sugar levels when you eat, and it aims to help people with metabolic diseases by finding better ways to treat them.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Washington NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Seattle, United States)
Project IDNIH-10890769 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the cooperative roles of glucagon and insulin, two hormones produced by the pancreas, in regulating blood sugar levels during and after eating. It explores how these hormones interact to control the liver's glucose metabolism, particularly in response to mixed nutrient meals. By studying the secretion patterns of glucagon and insulin, the research aims to uncover new insights into how these hormones can work together rather than against each other, potentially leading to improved treatments for metabolic diseases. Patients may benefit from a better understanding of how their bodies manage blood sugar, which could inform future therapies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with metabolic disorders, such as diabetes, who are interested in understanding their blood sugar regulation.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have metabolic disorders or those who are not affected by blood sugar regulation issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for managing blood sugar levels in patients with metabolic diseases.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the roles of glucagon and insulin, suggesting that this approach could lead to significant advancements in treatment.

Where this research is happening

Seattle, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.