Delta cell

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Delta cell (or D cell) is a type of endocrine cell found in the pancreas, specifically within the islets of Langerhans, as well as in the stomach and intestine. Delta cells are responsible for the production of the hormone somatostatin, which plays a crucial role in the regulation of the endocrine system and digestive system.

Location

Delta cells are primarily located in the islets of Langerhans in the pancreas. They are also found in the gastric glands of the stomach and in the intestinal mucosa of the small intestine.

Function

The main function of delta cells is to produce and secrete the hormone somatostatin. Somatostatin has several important functions, including:

• Inhibition of the release of growth hormone from the anterior pituitary gland.
• Inhibition of the release of insulin and glucagon from the pancreas.
• Inhibition of gastric acid secretion in the stomach.
• Inhibition of digestive enzyme secretion and bile flow in the intestine.

Regulation

The secretion of somatostatin by delta cells is regulated by various factors, including:

• Nutrient levels in the bloodstream, such as glucose, amino acids, and fatty acids.
• Hormonal signals from other endocrine cells.
• Neural signals from the autonomic nervous system.

Clinical Significance

Dysfunction of delta cells can lead to various medical conditions. For example, an overproduction of somatostatin can result in a condition known as somatostatinoma, a rare type of neuroendocrine tumor. This can lead to symptoms such as diabetes mellitus, gallstones, and steatorrhea due to the inhibitory effects of somatostatin on other hormones and digestive processes.

See also

• Alpha cell
• Beta cell
• Pancreas
• Islets of Langerhans
• Somatostatin
• Endocrine system