Question

In the human pancreas, which cell types secrete insulin and glucagon?

• A. Alpha cells and delta cells, respectively
• B. Beta cells and delta cells, respectively
• C. Alpha cells and beta cells, respectively
• D. Beta cells and alpha cells, respectively

Hint:

- Beta cells $\Rightarrow$ Insulin (reduces blood sugar). - Alpha cells $\Rightarrow$ Glucagon (increases blood sugar). - Delta cells secrete somatostatin (regulates both insulin and glucagon).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: The pancreas contains islets of Langerhans, which have specialized hormone-secreting cells.
Step 2: Beta ($\beta$) cells produce insulin, which lowers blood glucose levels by promoting uptake of glucose by cells.
Step 3: Alpha ($\alpha$) cells produce glucagon, which increases blood glucose levels by stimulating glycogen breakdown in the liver.
Step 4: Therefore, insulin is secreted by $\beta$-cells and glucagon by $\alpha$-cells.