Which hormone is produced by the islet of Langerhans that lowers blood sugar levels?

Insulin is the hormone produced by the islet of Langerhans in the pancreas that plays a crucial role in lowering blood sugar levels. When blood glucose levels rise after eating, insulin is secreted by the beta cells of the islets. This hormone facilitates the uptake of glucose into cells, particularly in muscle and fat tissues, and promotes the storage of glucose in the liver as glycogen. By enhancing the absorption of glucose, insulin effectively reduces the concentration of glucose in the bloodstream, helping to maintain homeostasis.

Understanding the actions of insulin is important in the context of diabetes. When insulin production is insufficient (as in type 1 diabetes) or when cells become resistant to its effects (as in type 2 diabetes), blood sugar levels can remain elevated, leading to various health complications.

While glucagon, produced by the alpha cells of the islets, works in opposition to insulin by raising blood sugar levels through the conversion of glycogen to glucose in the liver, it is not responsible for lowering sugar levels. Somatostatin, also produced within the islets, regulates the secretion of other hormones, including insulin and glucagon, but does not directly lower blood sugar. Cortisol, a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands,