noun
- a precursor protein that is converted to insulin in the pancreas
Usage: biochemistry
Examples
- Proinsulin is produced by beta cells in the pancreas.
- The conversion of proinsulin to insulin involves the removal of C-peptide.
- Elevated proinsulin levels may indicate pancreatic dysfunction.
- Scientists study proinsulin to better understand diabetes.
- Proinsulin contains both insulin and connecting peptide sequences.
- The proinsulin molecule is larger than mature insulin.