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Which cells in the islets of Langerhans detect changes in blood glucose?

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Diagram showing the locations of major human endocrine glands in male and female bodies, including pineal gland, hypothalamus, pituitary gland, parathyroid glands, thyroid gland, thymus, adrenal glands, pancreas, kidneys, testes, and ovaries. — Endocrine system The glands of the human endocrine system.

Within the islets of Langerhans, the beta cells (also referred to as B cells) are the primary cells responsible for detecting changes in blood glucose levels.12

These cells respond directly to blood glucose concentrations through a negative feedback mechanism. When blood glucose levels rise above the normal range, beta cells increase the synthesis and release of insulin to lower those levels. Conversely, alpha cells (or A cells) secrete glucagon, which acts to elevate blood glucose levels by promoting the breakdown of glycogen in the liver.213