Capillary contact points determine beta cell polarity, control secretion and are disrupted in the db/db mouse model of diabetes.

ABSTRACT:

Aims/hypothesis

Almost all beta cells contact one capillary and insulin granule fusion is targeted to this region. However, there are reports of beta cells contacting more than one capillary. We therefore set out to determine the proportion of beta cells with multiple contacts and the impact of this on cell structure and function.

Methods

We used pancreatic slices in mice and humans to better maintain cell and islet structure than in isolated islets. Cell structure was assayed using immunofluorescence and 3D confocal microscopy. Live-cell two-photon microscopy was used to map granule fusion events in response to glucose stimulation.

Results

We found that 36% and 22% of beta cells in islets from mice and humans, respectively, have separate contact with two capillaries.

SUBMITTER: Jevon D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11343897 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature