Alpha Cells: Regulating Blood Glucose Levels
Alpha cells are crucial components of the pancreas, playing a significant role in maintaining blood glucose levels. Found within the Islets of Langerhans, these cells have a unique function that helps the body respond to changes in blood sugar, particularly during fasting or between meals. Take control of your diabetes journey—enroll in the Diabetes Smarts Program today and start living your best life! Enroll Now 1. Discovery and Anatomy Alpha cells were first described as part of the Islets of Langerhans by the German pathologist Paul Langerhans in 1869. Langerhans identified these clusters of cells within the pancreas that have since been recognized for their critical roles in endocrine function. Within the Islets of Langerhans, alpha cells make up about 20% of the endocrine cells, with the remainder consisting mainly of beta cells (which produce insulin) and delta cells (which produce somatostatin). Alpha cells are characterized by their storage of glucagon , a hormone housed