As insulin production decreases, what happens to glucose entering cells?

When insulin production decreases, glucose entering cells typically decreases as well. Insulin plays a crucial role in facilitating the uptake of glucose by cells, particularly in muscle and fat tissues. It acts as a key that unlocks the door for glucose to enter cells.

In the absence of sufficient insulin, the cell's ability to transport glucose across the cell membrane is impaired. Consequently, glucose remains in the bloodstream rather than being absorbed by the cells where it can be utilized for energy or stored for later use. This can lead to higher blood glucose levels, which is commonly seen in insulin resistance and diabetes. Thus, as insulin production decreases, the overall uptake of glucose by cells diminishes, leading to decreased levels of glucose entering cells.