Insulin (INS) - Marker for pancreatic beta-cells

Insulin is a hormone specifically produced by the beta cells of the pancreatic islets of Langerhans. Insulin has the opposite effect of glucagon, and is secreted as a response to raised levels of glucose in the blood. Secretion of insulin stimulates cells in the body (particularly muscles, fat and liver) to take up sugars, amino acids and fatty acids from the blood stream. Deficiencies in insulin production or insulin-response are the underlying causes of diabetes.