Question:

Number of amino acids in human insulin:

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Insulin = A-chain (21 amino acids) + B-chain (30 amino acids) = 51 amino acids.
Updated On: Jun 17, 2026
  • 51
  • 30
  • 21
  • 45
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Concept: Insulin is a peptide hormone secreted by the $\beta$-cells of the pancreas. It regulates blood glucose levels and is one of the most important hormones in human physiology.

Step 1:
Structure of human insulin.
Human insulin consists of two polypeptide chains:
• A-chain containing 21 amino acids
• B-chain containing 30 amino acids These chains are connected by disulfide bonds.

Step 2:
Calculating the total number of amino acids.
Total amino acids \[ = 21 + 30 \] \[ = 51 \] Thus, a complete insulin molecule contains 51 amino acid residues.

Step 3:
Importance in biotechnology.
Human insulin was the first recombinant therapeutic protein produced using genetic engineering techniques. Its structure and amino acid sequence are therefore of great biological significance. Hence, the number of amino acids in human insulin is 51.
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