inzulinová

Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that plays a crucial role in regulating blood glucose levels. It allows cells in the body, particularly muscle, fat, and liver cells, to absorb glucose from the bloodstream for energy or storage. When blood glucose levels rise, such as after a meal, the pancreas releases insulin. This insulin then signals cells to take up glucose, effectively lowering blood sugar.

Insulin also influences metabolism in other ways. It promotes the conversion of glucose into glycogen, a storage form of glucose, in the liver and muscles. It also inhibits the liver from producing more glucose. In essence, insulin acts to store excess energy and prevent blood sugar from becoming too high.

Conversely, when blood glucose levels fall, such as during fasting or exercise, insulin secretion decreases. This allows the liver to release stored glucose (glycogenolysis) and produce new glucose (gluconeogenesis), thus raising blood sugar levels and providing energy to the body.

Disruptions in insulin production or function lead to diabetes mellitus. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body's immune system destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas, resulting in an absolute deficiency of insulin. Type 2 diabetes is characterized by insulin resistance, where the body's cells do not respond effectively to insulin, often combined with a relative deficiency in insulin production over time. Both conditions require careful management of blood glucose levels, often involving insulin therapy.