Definition

A type of protein that is the initial form of insulin in the body, which is changed into insulin through a chemical process.

Example

Proinsulin is produced in the pancreas and is essential for the regulation of blood sugar levels.

Conversation

I was reading about how proinsulin is related to diabetes.

Oh really? I didn't know that!

Yeah, apparently it gets converted into insulin in the body.

That makes sense; I've heard insulin is crucial for managing blood sugar.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Proinsulin is formed from "pro-" (meaning before) and "insulin" (from Latin "insula", meaning island, referring to the islets of Langerhans in the pancreas where insulin is produced). The term proinsulin refers to the precursor form of insulin, which is produced before it is converted into active insulin.

Memory Tip

Think of 'pro-' meaning 'before' and 'insulin' referring to the hormone produced in the pancreas. This helps you remember that proinsulin is the form that comes before insulin.

Visually Confused Words