Pancreatic islets

Definition

Pancreatic islets are clusters of cells in the pancreas that produce and secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream to regulate blood sugar levels. These cells are crucial for maintaining glucose homeostasis in the body.

Related terms

Insulin: A hormone produced by beta cells in the pancreatic islets that lowers blood glucose levels by facilitating cellular glucose uptake.

Glucagon: A hormone produced by alpha cells in the pancreatic islets that raises blood glucose levels by promoting gluconeogenesis and glycogenolysis.

Homeostasis: The process by which an organism or cell maintains internal equilibrium by adjusting its physiological processes