Insulin: Comprehensive Research Guide

Overview

Insulin is a peptide hormone produced by the beta cells of the pancreas. It is essential for glucose metabolism and is the primary treatment for diabetes mellitus. Discovered in 1921, insulin has saved millions of lives and remains one of the most important medications in medicine.

Mechanism of Action

Glucose Regulation

• **Glucose Uptake': Promotes glucose uptake into cells
• **Glycogen Synthesis': Stimulates glycogen formation
• **Glucose Production': Inhibits hepatic glucose production
• **Blood Glucose': Lowers blood glucose levels

Metabolic Effects

• **Protein Synthesis': Promotes protein synthesis
• **Fat Storage': Promotes fat storage
• **Cell Growth': Supports cell growth and division

Research Applications

Medical Applications

• **Type 1 Diabetes': Essential treatment for type 1 diabetes
• **Type 2 Diabetes': Treatment of type 2 diabetes
• **Hyperglycemia': Treatment of hyperglycemia
• **Diabetic Ketoacidosis': Treatment of DKA

Research

• **Diabetes Research': Research into diabetes mechanisms
• **Metabolic Disorders': Research into metabolic conditions

Dosage

• **Basal Insulin': 10-40 units daily (long-acting)
• **Bolus Insulin': 2-20 units per meal (rapid-acting)
• **Administration': Subcutaneous injection (most common)
• **Individualized': Dose varies by individual needs

Side Effects

• **Hypoglycemia': Low blood sugar (most serious)
• **Weight Gain': Possible weight gain
• **Injection Site': Reactions at injection site
• **Allergic': Rare allergic reactions

Storage

• **Unopened': 2-8°C (refrigerated)
• **Opened': Room temperature (varies by formulation)
• **Do Not Freeze': Protect from freezing

This information is for research and educational purposes only. Insulin is a prescription medication.