Insulin is produced by the:
AThyroid
BLiver
CPancreas
DPituitary
Answer & Solution
Correct answer: C. Pancreas
Insulin is a vital hormone responsible for regulating blood glucose levels. It is produced by the **pancreas**, specifically within specialized clusters of cells known as the **Islets of Langerhans**. Inside these islets, the **beta cells** synthesize and secrete insulin into the bloodstream when glucose levels rise (e.g., after a meal).
Let's evaluate the other options:
1. **Thyroid**: Produces hormones like thyroxine ($T_4$) which regulate metabolism.
2. **Liver**: While it stores glucose as glycogen in response to insulin, it does not produce insulin itself.
3. **Pituitary**: Known as the 'master gland,' it produces hormones that regulate other glands (like Growth Hormone or TSH), but not insulin.
Therefore, the correct answer is the Pancreas.
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