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alpha cell
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An anatomical illustration of the human pancreas shows its location near the stomach and intestines, a detailed cross-section highlighting ducts and the islet of Langerhans, and an inset of pancreatic tissue histology with labeled alpha, beta, and delta cells. Diagram showing a cross-section of a pancreatic islet of Langerhans on the left, with alpha, beta, and delta cells labeled by color, and on the right, arrows illustrating paracrine interactions among these cell types through hormones glucagon, insulin, and somatostatin.
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alpha cell

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An anatomical illustration of the human pancreas shows its location near the stomach and intestines, a detailed cross-section highlighting ducts and the islet of Langerhans, and an inset of pancreatic tissue histology with labeled alpha, beta, and delta cells.
The role of the islets of Langerhans The islets of Langerhans are responsible for the endocrine function of the pancreas. Each islet contains beta, alpha, delta, and pancreatic polypeptide (PP) cells that are responsible for the secretion of pancreatic hormones. Beta cells secrete insulin, a well-characterized hormone that plays an important role in regulating glucose metabolism.

Alpha cells are a type of cell found in the islets of Langerhans within the pancreas. These cells are responsible for producing glucagon, a hormone that plays a crucial role in regulating blood glucose levels. Glucagon opposes the action of insulin by stimulating the breakdown of glycogen in the liver, thereby releasing glucose into the bloodstream. This process is vital for maintaining blood glucose concentrations, especially during fasting or exercise. Glucagon secretion is stimulated by low blood glucose and protein intake, while inhibited by carbohydrates.12

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  1. glucagon
  2. islets of Langerhans

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