C-Peptide, Serum

C-peptide is a protein formed during insulin production. The C-peptide test is used to assess pancreatic function, diagnose Diabetes, , and monitor insulin therapy. C-peptide function: C-peptide is a protein produced along with insulin by the pancreas. During insulin synthesis, proinsulin is split into insulin and C-peptide, which is released into the bloodstream in amounts proportional to insulin. Since C-peptide is more stable in the blood, measuring it is used to assess insulin production and pancreatic function. The C-peptide test helps distinguish type 1 Diabetes, (with insufficient insulin production) from type 2 Diabetes, , where insulin may be produced in excess, but tissues are resistant to its effects.
Test significance: The C-peptide test is performed to diagnose and monitor Diabetes, , assess pancreatic function, and differentiate between types of Diabetes, . Elevated C-peptide levels may indicateInsulin resistance while lower levels point to insufficient insulin production. This test is also useful for monitoring insulin therapy and evaluating the effectiveness of insulin treatment.
Diseases: Elevated C-peptide levels are associated with Insulin Resistance and type 2 Diabetes, , while lower levels are characteristic of type 1 Diabetes, and pancreatic insufficiency.