islets of langerhans Synonyms
No Synonyms and anytonyms found
islets of langerhans Meaning
islets of langerhans (n)
cell clusters in the pancreas that form the endocrine part of that organ; secrete insulin and other hormones
islets of langerhans Sentence Examples
- The islets of Langerhans, clusters of endocrine cells found within the pancreas, are responsible for producing and secreting insulin and glucagon hormones.
- These small structures, scattered throughout the pancreas, make up approximately 1-2% of the overall pancreatic tissue.
- The islets contain various types of cells, including alpha cells that produce glucagon, beta cells that produce insulin, and delta cells that secrete somatostatin.
- The delicate balance maintained by the islets of Langerhans is crucial for regulating blood sugar levels in the body.
- When blood sugar levels rise, beta cells within the islets release insulin, a hormone that promotes the uptake of glucose into cells, leading to a decrease in blood sugar levels.
- Conversely, when blood sugar levels drop, alpha cells in the islets secrete glucagon, a hormone that triggers the release of glucose from the liver, helping to restore normal blood sugar levels.
- The dysfunction of the islets of Langerhans, particularly the beta cells, can lead to conditions such as type 1 and type 2 diabetes, where the body's ability to regulate blood sugar levels is impaired.
- Research on the islets of Langerhans and their cellular mechanisms has played a vital role in developing treatments for diabetes, such as islet transplantation and the use of incretin-based therapies.
- Preserving the health and functionality of the islets of Langerhans is essential for maintaining proper glucose metabolism and preventing the development of diabetes and its complications.
- Ongoing studies continue to explore the intricacies of the islets of Langerhans, aiming to gain further insights into their role in glucose homeostasis and potential therapeutic interventions for diabetes management.
FAQs About the word islets of langerhans
cell clusters in the pancreas that form the endocrine part of that organ; secrete insulin and other hormones
No synonyms found.
No antonyms found.
The islets of Langerhans, clusters of endocrine cells found within the pancreas, are responsible for producing and secreting insulin and glucagon hormones.
These small structures, scattered throughout the pancreas, make up approximately 1-2% of the overall pancreatic tissue.
The islets contain various types of cells, including alpha cells that produce glucagon, beta cells that produce insulin, and delta cells that secrete somatostatin.
The delicate balance maintained by the islets of Langerhans is crucial for regulating blood sugar levels in the body.
