Insulineffekte

Insulineffekte refers to the various physiological actions of insulin within the body. Insulin is a crucial hormone produced by the beta cells of the pancreas, primarily regulating carbohydrate, fat, and protein metabolism. Its most well-known effect is lowering blood glucose levels. After a meal, when blood glucose rises, insulin is released, promoting the uptake of glucose from the bloodstream into cells, especially muscle, liver, and adipose tissue. In the liver and muscles, insulin stimulates the conversion of glucose into glycogen for storage. In adipose tissue, it promotes glucose conversion into triglycerides.

Beyond glucose regulation, insulin also influences protein synthesis by increasing amino acid uptake into cells and promoting the formation of new proteins. It has anabolic effects, meaning it promotes the building of complex molecules from simpler ones, contributing to growth and repair. Insulin also inhibits catabolic processes, such as the breakdown of stored glycogen, fats, and proteins.

Disruptions in insulin production or function lead to significant metabolic disorders. A deficiency in insulin production, as seen in type 1 diabetes, results in persistently high blood glucose levels. Insulin resistance, where cells do not respond effectively to insulin, is a hallmark of type 2 diabetes and can also lead to elevated blood glucose and other metabolic complications. Understanding the diverse insulineffekte is fundamental to comprehending energy balance and the pathophysiology of metabolic diseases.