Pancreatic islet alpha cell (Alpha cell)

Pancreatic islet alpha cells are specialized endocrine cells located within the islets of Langerhans that are primarily responsible for the production and secretion of glucagon [1]. These cells play a fundamental role in glucose counterregulation by stimulating hepatic glucose output through glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis when blood glucose levels fall [2]. In metabolic disorders such as Type 2 Diabetes, alpha cells often become dysfunctional, leading to inappropriate glucagon secretion that contributes to hyperglycemia [3]. While the alpha cell itself is a cellular component rather than a discrete molecular target like a receptor or enzyme, it is the site of action for several classes of anti-diabetic medications [4]. For instance, GLP-1 receptor agonists and DPP-4 inhibitors work in part by suppressing alpha cell glucagon release in a glucose-dependent manner [4]. Furthermore, current research is investigating the potential to regenerate insulin-producing capacity by triggering the transdifferentiation of alpha cells into beta cells [5]. This cellular plasticity makes the alpha cell a significant focus for future regenerative therapies in Type 1 Diabetes [5].

Other names

Alpha-cellα-cellGlucagon-producing cellPancreatic alpha cellA cell

Inhibition of glucagon secretion via GLP-1 receptor agonism, somatostatin receptor activation, or paracrine signaling modulation; induction of alpha-to-beta cell transdifferentiation.