Description
An insulin precursor protein. It is produced in the beta cells of the pancreas, then cleaved into insulin and C-peptide. Normally, small amounts enter the bloodstream. In large quantities, it can exert an insulin-like effect on cells, accelerating glucose uptake and its metabolism. Since the metabolism shifts towards proinsulin production during the oncological transformation of pancreatic beta cells, the test is primarily used for the diagnosis and treatment monitoring of pancreatic beta-cell tumors (insulinomas). In diabetes mellitus, blood proinsulin levels may be tested together with insulin and C-peptide levels to assess beta-cell function. Elevated proinsulin concentrations in the blood can also be observed in renal failure, liver cirrhosis, and hyperthyroidism.
Period of execution
Within 18 days. The specified time does not include the day of biomaterial collection
Biomaterial type