bovine insulin

Bovine insulin is a peptide hormone produced by the beta cells of the pancreatic islets in cattle. It consists of two polypeptide chains (A and B) linked by disulfide bonds and differs from human insulin by three amino acid residues[2][8]. As the main anabolic hormone in mammals, it regulates carbohydrate, fat, and protein metabolism primarily by promoting glucose uptake into liver, muscle, and adipose tissue. Historically used to treat diabetes mellitus before recombinant human insulins became widely available, bovine insulin remains clinically effective for some patients who cannot tolerate human or porcine insulins[1][3]. However, it is more immunogenic than highly purified human insulins[5]. Its use has declined significantly due to concerns about immunogenicity and potential transmission of diseases such as bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE)[1][4]. Some formulations have been discontinued due to raw material shortages[4].

Brand names

Hypurin Bovine IsophaneHypurin Bovine Lente

Other names

beef insulininsulin bovine