- Insulin is a hormone produced by beta cells in the pancreas that regulates carbohydrate and fat metabolism. It promotes the absorption of glucose from the blood into liver, muscle, and fatty tissue.
- Insulin was first isolated in 1922 which revolutionized treatment for diabetes. It binds to insulin receptors on cells and triggers effects like increasing glucose uptake and glycogen/lipid synthesis while inhibiting gluconeogenesis and lipolysis.
- Insulin secretion is stimulated by high blood glucose levels after eating to promote storage of excess glucose. Multiple factors affect its secretion including hormones like glucagon, growth hormone, cortisol, and epinephrine.