1.

Draw (be specific on the structures of each component in the cycle) and explain the entire process of the
Citric Acid Cycle. Correlate the importance of the Citric Acid cycle in maintaining the glucose
homeostasis. (10 points)
2. Describe the roles of carbohydrates as antigens in the human body and in red blood cells. (10 pts)

3. Explain how blood glucose can be maintained through the different pathways of carbohydrate
metabolism (5 points)
4. Discuss the importance of the different metabolic pathways in maintaining glucose homeostasis (5
points)
- Glucose Homeostasis is the balance of insulin and glucagon to maintain blood glucose. Glucose
homeostasis is tightly regulated to meet the energy requirements of the vital organs and maintain
an individual's health.
- Glucose homeostasis is of critical importance to human health due to the central importance of
glucose as a source of energy, and the fact that brain tissues do not synthesize it. Thus maintaining
adequate glucose levels in the blood are necessary for survival.
- Glycolysis, a simple pathway of glucose metabolism, critically regulates insulin secretion and
metabolic functions of various cells. Targeting key metabolic and regulatory enzymes to enhance
glycolysis may offer viable approaches for treatment of diabetes.