What is the primary site of insulin production in the body?

Prepare for the Evolve Endocrine Test with in-depth flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Ensure you're ready for your exam!

Insulin is primarily produced in the pancreas, specifically within the clusters of cells known as the islets of Langerhans. These islets contain various cell types, with beta cells being responsible for synthesizing and secreting insulin in response to rising blood glucose levels after meals. This hormone plays a crucial role in regulating glucose metabolism by facilitating the uptake of glucose into the body’s cells, thereby lowering blood sugar levels.

The other options, while they have important endocrine functions, do not produce insulin. The liver is involved in glucose metabolism and is a key organ for insulin action, but it does not produce insulin. The adrenal glands produce hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, and the thyroid gland primarily produces hormones that regulate metabolism, such as thyroxine and triiodothyronine. Therefore, the pancreas is unmistakably identified as the primary site of insulin production in the body.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy