insulinhormon

Insulin 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 and blood glucose levels. Insulin facilitates the uptake of glucose from the bloodstream into liver, muscle, and adipose cells, thus lowering blood glucose. It also promotes the synthesis of glycogen in the liver and muscles, storing glucose for later use, and inhibits gluconeogenesis, the production of glucose by the liver.

In addition to its effects on glucose metabolism, insulin also plays a role in protein and fat metabolism. It promotes the synthesis of proteins and inhibits their breakdown. It also stimulates the synthesis of triglycerides in adipose tissue and inhibits lipolysis, the breakdown of stored fat.

The secretion of insulin is tightly regulated by blood glucose levels. When blood glucose rises, such as after a meal, the pancreas releases insulin. As blood glucose levels fall, insulin secretion decreases. Other factors, such as certain amino acids and hormones, can also influence insulin secretion.

Insulin is essential for life. A deficiency in insulin production or the body's inability to respond to insulin (insulin resistance) leads to diabetes mellitus, a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia. Type 1 diabetes is caused by autoimmune destruction of the beta cells, resulting in absolute insulin deficiency. Type 2 diabetes is characterized by insulin resistance and a relative deficiency in insulin secretion. Treatment for diabetes often involves insulin therapy to manage blood glucose levels.