The pancreas is the organ that makes insulin.
The pancreas is a vital organ located in the abdomen. Its primary function is to produce enzymes that aid in digestion and hormones, including insulin and glucagon, which regulate blood sugar levels. Insulin is crucial for allowing glucose (sugar) from the bloodstream to enter cells, where it's used for energy. Without insulin, glucose builds up in the blood, leading to hyperglycemia, a hallmark of diabetes.
Here's a breakdown:
- The Pancreas: This organ contains specialized cells called beta cells within the Islets of Langerhans. These beta cells are responsible for synthesizing and secreting insulin.
- Insulin's Role: Insulin acts like a key, unlocking cells to allow glucose to enter. This process lowers blood glucose levels.
- Consequences of Insulin Deficiency: When the pancreas doesn't produce enough insulin, or when the body becomes resistant to insulin, glucose can't enter cells effectively, causing a buildup of sugar in the blood, leading to diabetes mellitus.
Therefore, the pancreas plays an essential role in glucose metabolism through the production and release of insulin.
