Question

Which of the following pancreatic islet cells secretes insulin?

• A. Alpha cells or A cells
• B. Beta cells or B cells
• C. Delta cells or D cells
• D. F cells
• E.

Hint:

Remember: Alpha = Glucagon, Beta = Insulin, Delta = Somatostatin, F = Pancreatic polypeptide.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Structure of pancreatic islets.
The pancreas contains small groups of endocrine cells known as Islets of Langerhans.
These islets consist of four main types of cells: Alpha, Beta, Delta, and F cells.
Step 2: Functions of each cell.
- Alpha cells secrete glucagon, which raises blood glucose.
- Beta cells secrete insulin, which lowers blood glucose.
- Delta cells secrete somatostatin, which inhibits secretion of both insulin and glucagon.
- F cells secrete pancreatic polypeptide, which regulates pancreatic exocrine function.
Step 3: Role of insulin.
Insulin is the key hormone for glucose uptake into cells, glycogen storage, and lipid synthesis.
Deficiency or resistance to insulin leads to diabetes mellitus.
Step 4: Analysis of options.
- (A) Alpha cells: Incorrect, they produce glucagon.
- (B) Beta cells: Correct, they secrete insulin.
- (C) Delta cells: Incorrect, they produce somatostatin.
- (D) F cells: Incorrect, they produce pancreatic polypeptide.
Step 5: Conclusion.
Therefore, insulin is secreted by the Beta cells of the islets of Langerhans.