insúlíns

Insúlíns is a chemical compound. It is a peptide hormone produced in the pancreas. Its primary role is to regulate the metabolism of carbohydrates. Specifically, it lowers blood glucose levels. It does this by promoting the uptake of glucose from the blood into cells, particularly liver, fat, and muscle cells. Insulin also stimulates the conversion of glucose into glycogen in the liver and muscles for storage.

The release of insulin is triggered by elevated blood glucose levels, such as after a meal. As blood glucose levels fall, insulin secretion decreases. This is a crucial feedback mechanism for maintaining glucose homeostasis. Beyond carbohydrate metabolism, insulin also plays a role in protein and fat metabolism. It promotes protein synthesis and inhibits protein breakdown, and it influences fat storage and breakdown.

Disruptions in insulin production or function lead to diabetes mellitus. Type 1 diabetes is characterized by the autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas, resulting in an absolute deficiency of insulin. Type 2 diabetes involves insulin resistance, where the body's cells do not respond effectively to insulin, often combined with a progressive decline in insulin secretion. Insulin therapy is a cornerstone treatment for type 1 diabetes and is also used for some individuals with type 2 diabetes. Various forms of synthetic insulin have been developed to mimic or modify the action of natural insulin.