insulinlignende

Insulinlignende refers to molecules that resemble insulin in structure or function and participate in signaling pathways that regulate metabolism, growth, and development. The term is used across diverse organisms to describe peptides and proteins that can engage insulin- or insulin-like receptors and activate conserved intracellular pathways such as PI3K-Akt and MAPK.

In humans and other vertebrates, the principal insulin-related hormones are insulin itself and the insulin-like growth factors IGF-1 and IGF-2. Insulin primarily promotes glucose uptake and storage, while IGFs contribute to growth and development. All of these molecules are produced as larger precursors and require processing to become active peptides.

In invertebrates, including insects and nematodes, insulin-like peptides (ILPs or DILPs) regulate metabolism, growth rate, reproduction, and lifespan. They act through receptors analogous to vertebrate insulin/IGF receptors, triggering similar signaling pathways that influence cellular growth and nutrient sensing.

Differences across species reflect variation in receptor usage, tissue distribution, and physiological roles. While insulin serves as a key pancreatic hormone in mammals, insulin-lignende signals in other organisms can have diverse regulatory functions and evolutionary origins, united by a common theme of coordinating energy status with growth and development.

Research on insulinlignende signaling informs understanding of metabolic diseases, aging, and developmental biology, highlighting both the conservation and diversity of these signaling systems across the tree of life.