Question

The enzyme, Hormone Sensitive Lipase is responsible for fat release into the bloodstream from fat cells (adipocytes). It is regulated by hormones, such as insulin and glucagon.

If for example, you were to eat a bowl of sugary ice cream before you went to bed, what would happen to the ability of your fat cells to release fatty acids into the bloodstream to be used for fuel during your sleep cycle?

• Hint: what does the ice cream do to your blood sugar, insulin release, and HSL activity?
  • Obviously, use the lecture notes to learn about LPL and HSL!

Answer 1

Answer : Eating a bowl of sugary ice cream will result into the secretion of hormone insulin. Insulin stimulates the adipocytes to secrete lipoprotein lipse and inhibit the secretion of Hormone Sensitive Lipase which mobilizes the stored fat. By the action of LPL free fatty acids and monoglycerides are converted back to triglycerides for storage. In this way ability of the fat cells to release fatty acids into the bloodstream to be used for fuel is reduced during the sleep cycle.