Knowra Insulin secretion Insulin secretion Insulin secretion is the regulated release of insulin from pancreatic beta cells into the bloodstream. It rises chiefly when blood glucose increases after a meal.
Glucose-stimulated insulin secretion : The increase in pancreatic beta-cell insulin release triggered by elevated glucose. This is the principal pathway linking rising blood glucose to insulin release.
Pancreatic beta cell : An endocrine cell in the pancreatic islets that synthesizes and secretes insulin. These cells are the direct source of circulating insulin.
C-peptide test : A blood or urine test that measures C-peptide as an indicator of endogenous insulin production. Because C-peptide accompanies insulin release, the test helps assess beta-cell secretion.
Insulin action : The effects of insulin on target tissues, including glucose uptake and changes in metabolism. Secretion puts insulin into blood; insulin action describes what happens after it reaches tissues.
ATP-sensitive potassium channel : A potassium channel whose opening is inhibited by intracellular ATP and related metabolic signals. Glucose metabolism closes these channels, depolarizing beta cells and initiating secretion.
Pancreatic islet : A cluster of endocrine cells in the pancreas that releases hormones regulating blood glucose and digestion. Beta cells secrete insulin within islets, alongside cells that provide local signals.
Oral glucose tolerance test : A diagnostic test that measures blood glucose responses after a standardized oral glucose dose. The glucose challenge elicits insulin secretion and reveals how effectively it responds.
Insulin clearance : The removal and degradation of insulin from circulation, chiefly by the liver and kidneys. Blood insulin levels reflect both secretion and clearance, not release alone.
Voltage-gated calcium channel : A membrane channel that opens in response to depolarization and allows calcium ions to enter a cell. Beta-cell depolarization opens these channels, supplying the calcium signal for granule release.
Insulin biosynthesis : The cellular production and processing of insulin from its precursor, proinsulin. Secretion depends on insulin being synthesized, packaged, and stored beforehand.
Show all 24