Islet Cells
(
Células de los islotes
)
The pancreas contains clusters of cells that produce hormones.
These clusters are known as islets. There are several different
types of cells in an islet. For example, alpha cells make the
hormone glucagon, which raises the glucose (a type of sugar) level
in the blood. Beta cells make the hormone insulin, which lowers the
glucose level. In
type 1 diabetes
, the body's
immune system
mistakenly destroys the beta cells. This causes the pancreas to
lose the ability to make insulin.
Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice,
diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.
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