Insulin is extracted by harvesting it from recombinant bacteria that produce human insulin.
Here's a more detailed look at the process:
- Recombinant Bacteria: Scientists modify bacteria to include the human insulin gene, creating "recombinant" bacteria.
- Fermentation: The recombinant bacteria are placed in large fermentation tanks.
- Insulin Production: Inside these tanks, the bacteria use the human insulin gene to produce human insulin. The reference states, "the recombinant bacteria use the gene to begin producing human insulin."
- Harvesting: Scientists harvest the insulin from the bacteria. The reference states, "Scientists harvest the insulin from the bacteria..."
- Purification: Finally, the harvested insulin is purified for use as a medicine. The reference states, "...and purify the substance for use as a medicine for people."
In summary, the extraction of insulin involves using genetically modified bacteria to produce human insulin, followed by harvesting and purification of the insulin from these bacteria.
