insulin

[in-suh-lin, ins-yuh-]

noun

1. Biochemistry.,  a polypeptide hormone, produced by the beta cells of the islets of Langerhans of the pancreas, that regulates the metabolism of glucose and other nutrients.

2. Pharmacology.,  any of several commercial preparations of this substance, each of which allows a particular rate of absorption into the system: genetically engineered or obtained from the pig or ox pancreas, and used in the treatment of diabetes to restore the normal ability of the body to utilize sugars and other carbohydrates.

insulin

/ ˈɪnsjʊlɪn /

noun

1. a protein hormone, secreted in the pancreas by the islets of Langerhans, that controls the concentration of glucose in the blood. Insulin deficiency results in diabetes mellitus

insulin

1. A hormone produced in the pancreas that regulates the amount of sugar in the blood by stimulating cells, especially liver and muscle cells, to absorb and metabolize glucose. Insulin also stimulates the conversion of blood glucose into glycogen and fat, which are the body's chief sources of stored carbohydrates.

2. A drug containing this hormone, obtained from the pancreas of animals or produced synthetically and used to treat diabetes.

insulin

1. A hormone secreted by the pancreas that regulates the levels of sugar in the blood.

Persons suffering from diabetes mellitus may receive periodic or daily injections of insulin as a treatment for the disease.

Word History and Origins

Origin of insulin¹

First recorded in 1910–15; insul(a) + -in ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of insulin¹

C20: from New Latin insula islet (of the pancreas) + _-in

Example Sentences

Mariona believes the forced, intravenous "treatment" with insulin irreparably damaged her memory.

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The researchers suggested that e-cigarette use may temporarily impair insulin function and contribute to weight gain, both of which are tied to prediabetes.

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Gracie now has a glucose monitor and an insulin pump and is "bossing diabetes", says her dad.

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GLP-1 receptor agonists are known to lower inflammation throughout the body, enhance insulin sensitivity, and promote weight loss -- all factors that can influence cancer growth and progression.

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It works by improving the body's sensitivity to insulin, reducing the amount of glucose produced by the liver, and enhancing glucose uptake by muscle cells.

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