INS : insulin
The INS Gene: Unlocking the Secrets of Insulin Production
Description
Nestled within our genetic blueprint, the INS gene orchestrates the production of insulin, a crucial hormone that governs the delicate balance of glucose in our bloodstream. Glucose, the body‘s primary fuel, relies on insulin to usher it into cells for energy utilization.
Associated Diseases
Mutations or disruptions in the INS gene can lead to a spectrum of disorders that disrupt insulin synthesis or function:
- Type 1 Diabetes: An autoimmune condition where the body‘s immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, leading to a severe lack of insulin.
- Type 2 Diabetes: A multifaceted disorder characterized by insulin resistance (reduced ability of cells to respond to insulin) or impaired insulin production.
- Gestational Diabetes: A temporary condition during pregnancy where the body becomes less sensitive to insulin, elevating blood glucose levels.
Did you Know ?
A significant proportion of the population carries one or more genetic variations in the INS gene. However, the penetrance of these variations varies widely, meaning that not all individuals with a variant will develop an insulin-related disorder.
