List of hormones

Insulin

Insulin (/ˈɪnsjʊlɪn/; from Latin insula, 'island') is a peptide hormone produced by beta cells of the pancreatic islets. It regulates the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and protein by promoting the absorption of glucose from the blood into liver, fat and skeletal muscle cells.

Etymology

The term insulin comes from the Latin insula, meaning island, referring to the Islets of Langerhans in the pancreas where insulin is produced.

Function

Insulin plays a key role in the regulation of blood glucose levels. It allows cells in the body to take in glucose and use it as a source of energy. This prevents blood glucose levels from becoming too high (Hyperglycemia) or too low (Hypoglycemia).

Related Terms

• Glucose
• Pancreas
• Islets of Langerhans
• Hyperglycemia
• Hypoglycemia

See Also

• Diabetes mellitus
• Metabolic syndrome
• Insulin resistance

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