insuliinihormoni

Insuliinihormoni is a peptide hormone produced by the beta cells of the islets of Langerhans in the pancreas. Its primary role is to regulate carbohydrate metabolism in the body. Insulin facilitates the uptake of glucose from the bloodstream into cells, particularly liver, muscle, and adipose tissue, thereby lowering blood glucose levels. This process is crucial for providing energy to cells and for storing excess glucose as glycogen in the liver and muscles, or as fat in adipose tissue.

When blood glucose levels rise, such as after a meal, the pancreas releases insulin. This hormone then binds to insulin receptors on cell surfaces, signaling the cells to absorb glucose. Insulin also inhibits the liver from producing more glucose. Conversely, when blood glucose levels fall, insulin secretion decreases, allowing the liver to release stored glucose into the bloodstream to maintain normal levels.

Disruptions in insulin production or its effectiveness can lead to diabetes mellitus. Type 1 diabetes occurs when the pancreas produces little or no insulin, while type 2 diabetes is characterized by insulin resistance, where cells do not respond properly to insulin, and often an insufficient insulin response. Maintaining stable blood glucose levels through balanced diet, exercise, and sometimes medication or insulin therapy is essential for overall health.