Final answer:
Insulin, produced by the pancreas, is stored in beta cells and released after a glucose-rich meal to regulate blood glucose levels. Insulin promotes glucose uptake and storage as glycogen, while pharmacogenomics studies the genetic factors influencing individual responses to drugs like insulin.
Step-by-step explanation:
Storage and Release of Insulin
Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas and is crucial for regulating blood glucose levels. It is stored in the beta cells of the pancreas and is released into the bloodstream in response to rising blood glucose levels. The process of insulin release is known as exocytosis, which typically occurs after a person consumes a meal rich in glucose. As glucose enters beta cells via GLUT 2 channels, it triggers ATP production that leads to the closing of potassium pumps, opening of calcium channels, and the release of insulin.
Insulin's primary roles include promoting glucose uptake by cells for energy and facilitating the storage of excess glucose as glycogen in the liver. This action reduces blood glucose levels, managing the overall glucose balance in the body. Conversely, when blood glucose levels are low, the pancreas secretes glucagon, which stimulates the liver to break down glycogen back into glucose.
While insulin injections are used to manage blood glucose levels, especially in individuals with diabetes mellitus, the exact response can vary due to different genetic factors. Pharmacogenomics is the study of how an individual's genetic makeup affects their reaction to drugs, and it helps personalize medical treatments based on one's genomic information.