Question

Insulin

Hint:

To easily remember its function, think: "Insulin puts glucose {IN}-to the cells." This helps recall that its primary job is to lower blood sugar by moving it out of the bloodstream and into the body's cells for energy or storage.

Answer 1

Insulin is a vital hormone produced by the beta cells of the pancreas. Its primary role is to regulate the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins by promoting the absorption of glucose from the blood into the liver, fat, and skeletal muscle cells.
Function: It lowers blood glucose levels by allowing cells to take in glucose to be used for energy. When the body has sufficient energy, insulin signals the liver to take up excess glucose and store it as glycogen.

Regulation: Blood sugar levels control the secretion of insulin. High blood sugar stimulates insulin release, while low blood sugar inhibits it.

Medical Significance: In diabetes mellitus, the body either does not produce enough insulin (Type 1) or cannot effectively use the insulin it produces (Type 2). People with diabetes often require insulin injections to manage their blood sugar levels.