During prolonged starvation; all of the following occur except: free fatty acids will be broken down by beta-oxidation, and formed into Acetyl CoA the liver will be performing glycogenolysis at an accelerated rate free fatty acids will be converted into the ketone bodies the last stage’ of starvation will occur; which is the breakdown of proteins insulin levels will be very low
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct answer: The liver will be performing glycogenolysis at an accelerated rate
Explanation:
During prolonged starvation, the body undergoes several physiological adaptations to maintain energy supply to vital organs such as the brain and heart. The major changes include the utilization of fat stores, production of ketone bodies, and protein breakdown. Here’s a breakdown of what happens during prolonged starvation and why the selected statement is incorrect:
- Free fatty acids are broken down by beta-oxidation:
This is true. Adipose tissue releases free fatty acids into the bloodstream. In cells, especially in the liver and muscle, these fatty acids undergo beta-oxidation to generate Acetyl CoA, which then enters the citric acid cycle or is used to make ketone bodies. - Free fatty acids are converted into ketone bodies:
This is also true. When there is a high level of Acetyl CoA and not enough oxaloacetate due to low carbohydrate intake, the liver diverts Acetyl CoA into the production of ketone bodies. These serve as an alternative energy source for the brain and other tissues. - Breakdown of proteins occurs in the last stage of starvation:
This is true. Once fat stores are depleted, the body begins to break down muscle proteins to produce amino acids for gluconeogenesis. This is considered the final phase of starvation and leads to severe muscle wasting. - Insulin levels are very low:
Correct. Insulin secretion is suppressed during starvation due to low blood glucose levels. Low insulin facilitates lipolysis and ketogenesis. - The liver will be performing glycogenolysis at an accelerated rate:
This is false. Glycogenolysis primarily occurs during short-term fasting or early starvation (within 24 hours). During prolonged starvation, liver glycogen stores are already depleted, so glycogenolysis is not significant. Instead, the liver relies on gluconeogenesis and ketogenesis to meet energy demands.
Thus, the incorrect statement is that the liver continues accelerated glycogenolysis during prolonged starvation.
