Insulin is a type of hormone that is made by an organ located behind the stomach called the pancreas. Insulin's role in the body is to facilitate the entry of glucose from the bloodstream into cells, providing them with the necessary energy for their functions. Insufficient insulin effectiveness is a pivotal factor in the development of diabetes. Type 1 diabetes arises when the body cannot produce insulin, and this condition can be mitigated through the use of synthetic human insulin.
Synthetic human insulin represents a groundbreaking achievement in the biotech industry, stemming directly from recombinant DNA technology. Currently, millions of individuals with diabetes worldwide rely on synthetic insulin to regulate their blood sugar levels. This insulin is manufactured in both bacteria and yeast. The complete process can be seen here:
Human insulin is manufactured in a meticulously controlled and sterile environment. Genetically modified bacteria are cultivated in large stainless steel fermentation vessels, which are equipped with all the necessary nutrients for bacterial growth.
Once the fermentation process is finished, the mixture containing the bacteria is extracted from the fermentation vessel. The bacteria are then separated through filtration and broken open to release the insulin they have generated. Subsequently, the insulin is isolated from all other proteins and organelles within the bacteria. After purification, the insulin is prepared for distribution.
To prevent contamination, all equipment is maintained in a sterile condition, and regular checks are conducted to ensure that the insulin meets the required quality standards.