islet of Langerhans

island of Langerhans

The clusters of hormone-producing cells that are scattered throughout the pancreas.

Type Gland
Body System Endocrine
Parent Structure cell cluster
Latin Name island of Langerhans
FMA ID 16016

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main cell types found in the islets of Langerhans?
The islets contain several hormone-secreting cell types: alpha cells (glucagon), beta cells (insulin, the most abundant type), delta cells (somatostatin), PP cells (pancreatic polypeptide), and epsilon cells (ghrelin). Each cell type regulates distinct metabolic functions.
How do islets of Langerhans differ from the exocrine pancreas?
Islets are endocrine structures that secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream, comprising about 1-2% of the pancreatic mass. The surrounding exocrine pancreas produces digestive enzymes secreted into the duodenum via ducts.
What happens to islets of Langerhans in type 1 diabetes?
In type 1 diabetes, the immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells within the islets of Langerhans. This autoimmune destruction results in absolute insulin deficiency, requiring lifelong insulin therapy.

Related Structures

adrenal cortex adrenal gland cortex Adrenal gland Glandula suprarenalis adrenal gland capsule adrenal capsule adrenal/interrenal gland adrenal - interrenal gland adrenal medulla adrenal central medulla adrenal tissue adrenal gland tissue biliary ductule bile capillary capillary network of liver capillary plexus of liver

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Educational Disclaimer

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Data sources: Terminologia Anatomica, Foundational Model of Anatomy, Wikidata.