Islets of Langerhans, also commonly referred to as Islands of Langerhans, are small, scattered groups of endocrine cells located within the pancreas. These clusters of cells are responsible for the production and secretion of several vital hormones involved in regulating blood sugar levels and metabolism.
Named after German physician Paul Langerhans who first discovered them in 1869, the Islets of Langerhans make up only about 1-2% of the total pancreatic tissue but play a crucial role in maintaining glucose homeostasis in the body. These islets contain different types of endocrine cells including alpha cells, beta cells, delta cells, and gamma cells, each synthesizing and releasing specific hormones.
Beta cells are the most abundant in the islets, and they produce insulin, a hormone that plays a central role in controlling blood sugar levels by facilitating the uptake and utilization of glucose by cells. In contrast, alpha cells produce glucagon, a hormone that increases blood sugar levels by promoting the breakdown of stored glycogen into glucose. Delta cells produce somatostatin, a hormone that inhibits the release of both insulin and glucagon, therefore regulating their functions. Lastly, gamma cells secrete pancreatic polypeptide, which helps in regulating digestion and reducing appetite.
Any dysfunction or damage to the Islets of Langerhans can lead to significant metabolic disorders, such as type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Understanding the structure and function of these islets is crucial for the development of treatments and therapies for individuals with pancreatic diseases and disorders.
