Physiology
Insulin
A hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates blood glucose levels by promoting glucose uptake into cells. Essential for energy metabolism.
Biological Context
After eating, rising blood glucose triggers insulin release. Insulin tells cells to absorb glucose for energy or storage. Type 1 diabetes involves insufficient insulin production; Type 2 involves insulin resistance. Insulin also affects fat storage and protein synthesis.
Business Application
Insulin-like business signals tell the organization to absorb and store resources during times of plenty. Organizational 'insulin resistance'—inability to effectively deploy available capital—is a sign of dysfunction.