alpha cell

"Alpha cells" are specialized cells in the pancreas that play a key role in blood sugar regulation.

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Definition

(technical, medical)A cell in the pancreas that produces and releases glucagon to increase blood sugar levels.

When blood sugar levels drop, alpha cells release glucagon to restore balance.
Diabetes research often focuses on the function of alpha cells in glucose regulation.

(technical)An acidophilic cell found in the islets of Langerhans of the pancreas, involved in hormone secretion.

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "alpha cell":