INSULINS Meaning and
Definition
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Insulins refer to a class of proteins that are naturally produced in the pancreas by specialized cells called beta cells. They play a crucial role in regulating glucose metabolism and maintaining normal blood sugar levels in the body. Insulins are considered key hormones, as they facilitate the absorption of glucose from the bloodstream into cells where it can be used as an energy source.
In individuals with diabetes, either the pancreas doesn't produce enough insulin (type 1 diabetes) or the body becomes resistant to the effects of insulin (type 2 diabetes). Consequently, people with diabetes often require exogenous insulin therapy to help manage their blood glucose levels.
Synthetic insulins, derived from recombinant DNA technology, are artificially produced in laboratories and are available in various forms such as rapid-acting, short-acting, intermediate-acting, and long-acting insulins. These different formulations cater to individuals with diverse insulin needs, taking into account factors like the speed of action, duration of effect, and peak activity.
The administration of insulin can be done via injection using a syringe, insulin pen, or an insulin pump. In recent years, advancements in technology have led to the introduction of inhalable and oral insulin formulations, but these are not yet as widely used as injectable insulins.
Overall, insulins are vital therapeutic agents that enable individuals with diabetes to effectively manage their blood sugar levels and prevent complications associated with uncontrolled glucose levels.
Etymology of INSULINS
The word "insulins" is derived from the noun "insulin", which refers to a hormone produced in the pancreas that regulates blood sugar levels. "Insulin" itself was coined in 1910 by Sir Edward Albert Sharpey-Schafer, a British physiologist, by combining the Latin word "insula" (island) with the -in suffix referring to a substance. This term was chosen because the hormone is produced in specialized cells within tiny clusters known as islets of Langerhans in the pancreas, which resemble islands. Therefore, "insulins" is the plural form of the noun "insulin", indicating multiple types or forms of the hormone.
