Islet cell

Islet cells, also known as islets of Langerhans, are clusters of pancreatic cells that secrete hormones vital to regulating the body's glucose levels. These cells are named after the German pathologist Paul Langerhans, who discovered them in 1869.

Types of Islet Cells

There are five types of islet cells, each secreting a different hormone:

• Alpha cells (Glucagon): These cells produce glucagon, a hormone that raises blood glucose levels.

• Beta cells (Insulin and Amylin): Beta cells are the most common type of islet cell and produce insulin, which lowers blood glucose levels, and amylin, which slows the rate of glucose entering the bloodstream.

• Delta cells (Somatostatin): Delta cells produce somatostatin, a hormone that inhibits the release of other hormones in the islet.

• PP cells or F cells (Pancreatic polypeptide): These cells produce pancreatic polypeptide, which regulates both the exocrine and endocrine functions of the pancreas.

• Epsilon cells (Ghrelin): Epsilon cells produce ghrelin, a hormone that stimulates hunger.

Diseases Related to Islet Cells

Dysfunction or destruction of islet cells can lead to various diseases:

• Type 1 diabetes: This autoimmune disease results from the destruction of beta cells, leading to a lack of insulin production.

• Type 2 diabetes: This form of diabetes is characterized by insulin resistance, where the body's cells fail to respond properly to insulin.

• Hyperinsulinism: This condition is caused by an overproduction of insulin from the beta cells.

• Pancreatic cancer: Islet cell tumors, also known as pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors, are a rare form of pancreatic cancer.

See Also

• Pancreas
• Endocrine system
• Hormone
• Diabetes mellitus

References

Islet cell Resources
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