Alpha cells (α-cells) are endocrine cells that are found in the Islets of Langerhans in the pancreas. Alpha cells secrete the peptide hormone glucagon in order to increase glucose levels in the blood stream.

Alpha cells make up 30–40% of human islet endocrine cells and play a major role in regulating whole-body glucose homeostasis, largely through the direct actions of their main secretory product – glucagon – on peripheral organs.

Hormones produced in the pancreatic islets are secreted directly into the blood flow by five different types of cells. The endocrine cell subsets are: Alpha cells that produce glucagon, and make up 15–20% of total islet cells. Glucagon is a hormone that raises blood glucose levels by stimulating the liver to convert its glycogen into glucose.

The aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview of recent research into the regulation of beta cell function by alpha cells, focusing on the effect of alpha cell-secreted factors, such as glucagon and acetylcholine.

May 16, 2024 · Alpha, or α, cells are one of four major endocrine cell types found in adult pancreatic islets (of Langerhans), constituting 15-20% of the islet cells. Alpha cells secrete the hormone glucagon in response to low concentrations of glucose in the blood.

Alpha and beta cells are the predominant cell types in microscopic endocrine organs called the ‘islets of Langerhans’, which are scattered throughout the exocrine pancreas and produce, store, and secrete the hormones glucagon and insulin, respectively.

Mar 21, 2023 · Alpha cells are one of the three types of cells in the pancreas and produce and secrete glucagon, whereas beta cells are another type of cell in the pancreas and produce and secrete insulin hormone. Alpha cells are less abundant, while …

The alpha cells of the islets of Langerhans produce an opposing hormone, glucagon, which releases glucose from the liver and fatty acids from fat tissue. In turn, glucose and free fatty acids favor insulin release and inhibit glucagon release.

Alpha cells are tiny, fascinating structures tucked within the pancreas. Though often overshadowed by insulin-producing beta cells, alpha cells play a crucial role in physiology and medicine.

Oct 11, 2018 · This Review outlines our current understanding of α-cells and discusses how they could be targeted in the treatment of diabetes mellitus.