Which term describes the process of glucose production from non-glucose sources, such as protein?

The term that describes the process of glucose production from non-glucose sources, such as protein, is gluconeogenesis. This metabolic pathway primarily occurs in the liver and to some extent in the kidneys. Gluconeogenesis synthesizes glucose from substrates that are not carbohydrates, including amino acids (derived from proteins), glycerol (from fats), and lactate. This process is particularly crucial during fasting or intense exercise when glucose levels need to be maintained, allowing the body to sustain energy supply.

Other metabolic pathways related to glucose metabolism include glycolysis, which is the breakdown of glucose to produce energy; glycogenesis, the process of converting excess glucose into glycogen for storage; and fermentation, an anaerobic process that converts sugars into acids, gases, or alcohol. While these pathways are all involved in managing glucose and energy levels in the body, they do not refer to the synthesis of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources, which is the specific focus of gluconeogenesis.