6 Questions
What is the primary factor that causes glucose levels to decrease by 5%-7% per hour in unprocessed blood samples?
Glycolysis
Which of the following is a recommended way to minimize glycolysis in blood samples if immediate plasma separation is not possible?
Using citrate buffer
What percentage of water do red blood cells contain?
80%
What range is considered normal for blood glucose levels in plasma or serum?
70 – 100 mg/dl
Why is the glucose concentration in plasma higher than in whole blood?
Red blood cells contain less water
Apart from the brain, which other cells strictly use glucose under non-starvation conditions?
Red blood cells
Study Notes
Glucose as a Fuel Source
- Glucose is the universal fuel for every human cell type.
- It is the only fuel used by the brain under non-starvation conditions.
- Red blood cells can only use glucose as a fuel source under all conditions.
Glucose Metabolism and Concentration
- Glucose is the prominent carbohydrate in the metabolism of most organisms.
- The body maintains a reference range of blood glucose level between 70-100 mg/dl in serum or plasma.
- The glucose concentration in plasma is about 12% higher than in whole blood due to differences in water content.
Handling and Collection of Blood Samples
- Glucose levels can decrease by 5-7% (5-10 mg/dl) per hour in unprocessed blood samples due to glycolysis.
- Serum in contact with red blood cells without preservatives must be separated from the cells to prevent glycolysis.
- Plasma should be separated from cells within 30 minutes to minimize glycolysis.
- If timely separation is not possible, collecting samples in tubes with glycolysis inhibitors like citrate buffer or Sodium Fluoride (NaF) can prevent glucose degradation.
Learn about the importance of glucose as a fuel for human cells, its role in brain function, and how the body regulates blood glucose levels. Test your knowledge of glucose metabolism and its significance in the human body.
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