C peptide

C-peptide is a short polypeptide that is crucial in the creation of insulin, a hormone that regulates the body's glucose levels. It is produced in the pancreas and released into the bloodstream in equal amounts to insulin.

Production and Function

C-peptide is created as a byproduct during the production of insulin. The process begins with the creation of proinsulin, a precursor molecule. Proinsulin is then cleaved into two parts: insulin and C-peptide. This cleavage allows for the proper folding and formation of insulin, which is then ready to be released into the bloodstream.

While C-peptide was once thought to be a waste product, recent research has shown that it has its own physiological effects. It is believed to play a role in preventing diabetic neuropathy, a common complication of diabetes where nerves throughout the body are damaged due to high blood sugar levels.

Clinical Significance

C-peptide levels are often measured in the diagnosis and management of diabetes. In type 1 diabetes, the body's immune system destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, leading to low or undetectable levels of both insulin and C-peptide. In contrast, type 2 diabetes is characterized by insulin resistance, where the body's cells are unable to respond properly to insulin. This leads to an initial increase in insulin and C-peptide levels, as the pancreas tries to compensate for the resistance.

C-peptide testing can also be used to distinguish between type 1 and type 2 diabetes, as well as to monitor insulin production in people with diabetes who are taking insulin injections. It can also be used to identify factitious hypoglycemia, a condition where low blood sugar levels are caused by the intake of too much insulin.

See Also

• Insulin
• Diabetes
• Pancreas
• Proinsulin
• Diabetic neuropathy