Final answer:
NPH insulin is an intermediate-acting human insulin used to help control blood glucose levels in people with diabetes. It is produced through gene cloning technology, making it more compatible with human biology compared to animal-derived insulins.
Step-by-step explanation:
What is NPH Insulin?
NPH insulin, also known as isophane insulin, is a type of human insulin used to treat diabetes. It has an intermediate-acting duration, offering a slower onset and a longer period of activity compared to regular insulin, making it useful in maintaining baseline insulin levels. Human insulin is a protein hormone made up of A and B peptide chains, which in its active form does not contain the extra 'C' chain present in proinsulin.
The production of human insulin today involves gene cloning technology, which allows bacterial cells to produce large quantities of it. This technique has replaced the earlier methods that extracted insulin from animal sources, improving the compatibility and reducing allergic reactions in patients with diabetes. As a hormone, insulin is essential for controlling blood glucose levels and is particularly critical for individuals with type 1 diabetes.