In theory, the sequence could be used to pump out large amounts of any protein, including insulin. Being able to produce insulin more efficiently is why rBIO thinks it can drive the cost down.

Using a hybrid, closed-loop insulin delivery system in the auto mode shows improved glycemic control and a favorable safety ...

Insulin is formed as a precursor protein pre-proinsulin. This is encoded by a 14kb sequence on the INS gene. In most animals including humans, a single gene for insulin is found.

After the discovery of insulin in 1921 (Milestone 1), the use of porcine or bovine insulin to control blood glucose levels in individuals with diabetes became widespread and saved many lives ...

In the adult insulin is expressed almost exclusively in the ß-cells of the pancreatic islets of Langerhans, [] hence its name from Latin insula or "island." Low levels of extrapancreatic insulin ...