Geometric and topological characterization of the cytoarchitecture of islets of Langerhans.

ABSTRACT: The islets of Langerhans are critical endocrine micro-organs that secrete hormones regulating energy metabolism in animals. Insulin and glucagon, secreted by beta and alpha cells, respectively, are responsible for metabolic switching between fat and glucose utilization. Dysfunction in their secretion and/or counter-regulatory influence leads to diabetes. Debate in the field centers on the cytoarchitecture of islets, as the signaling that governs hormonal secretion depends on structural and functional factors, including electrical connectivity, innervation, vascularization, and physical proximity. Much effort has therefore been devoted to elucidating which architectural features are significant for function and how derangements in these features are correlated or causative for dysfunction,

SUBMITTER: Aggarwal M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10662755 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature