Beta cells are the most common cells in the pancreatic islets, about 60-70%, and the body only source of insulin. They sense blood glucose directly and release insulin within minutes.
| Location | Pancreatic islets throughout the pancreas |
|---|---|
| Secretes |
|
| Nerve Supply | Vagus nerve (parasympathetic); Coeliac plexus (sympathetic) |
| Blood Supply | Splenic artery branches; Pancreaticoduodenal arteries |
| Venous drainage |
|
| Lymphatic drainage |
|
Release insulin when glucose rises, driving glucose into muscle, fat and liver and storing energy.
Autoimmune destruction of beta cells causes type 1 diabetes; in type 2 diabetes beta cells fail to keep up with insulin resistance. Exercise improves insulin sensitivity and reduces the load on beta cells. Insulinomas cause recurrent low blood sugar.
Autoimmune loss of beta cells requiring lifelong insulin.
A beta cell tumour causing episodes of low blood glucose.
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