Isleta

Isleta is a term of Spanish origin, which translates to "small island". In the context of medical terminology, it is often used to refer to the Islets of Langerhans, which are tiny clusters of cells scattered throughout the pancreas. These islets play a crucial role in the body's endocrine system, particularly in the regulation of blood sugar levels.

Structure and Function

The Islets of Langerhans are made up of several types of cells, each with a specific function. The most significant of these are the beta cells, which produce insulin, a hormone that lowers blood sugar levels. Other cell types include alpha cells, which produce glucagon to raise blood sugar levels, and delta cells, which produce somatostatin to regulate the other two.

The islets are highly vascularized, meaning they have a rich supply of blood vessels. This allows them to quickly respond to changes in blood sugar levels and release the appropriate hormones as needed.

Disorders

Disorders of the Islets of Langerhans can lead to serious health conditions. The most common of these is diabetes mellitus, a chronic disease characterized by high blood sugar levels. This can occur due to a lack of insulin production (Type 1 diabetes), or a resistance to insulin's effects (Type 2 diabetes).

Other disorders include hyperinsulinism, which is an overproduction of insulin, and pancreatic cancer, which can involve the islets.

Treatment and Research

Treatment for disorders of the Islets of Langerhans typically involves managing blood sugar levels, either through medication, diet, or both. In severe cases, islet transplantation may be considered.

Research into the Islets of Langerhans is ongoing, with scientists seeking to better understand their function and how they can be manipulated to treat diseases like diabetes.

File:Islets of Langerhans.png

Islets of Langerhans in the human pancreas

See Also

• Endocrine system
• Insulin
• Diabetes mellitus
• Islet transplantation