What are islet cells responsible for?

Islet cells, or islets of Langerhans, are specialized cells located in the pancreas that play a crucial role in carbohydrate metabolism. They are primarily responsible for producing key hormones, specifically insulin and glucagon. Insulin helps lower blood sugar levels by facilitating the uptake of glucose into tissues, while glucagon has the opposite effect, raising blood sugar levels by stimulating the liver to release glucose into the bloodstream. This delicate balance between insulin and glucagon maintains proper glucose homeostasis and is vital for overall metabolic health.

Other choices, while relevant to different aspects of physiology or metabolism, do not accurately reflect the primary function of islet cells. Hormones related to digestion are produced by different cells in the digestive system, including the stomach and intestines. Blood pressure regulation primarily involves the cardiovascular system and is managed by various other endocrine organs, such as the kidneys and adrenal glands. Nutrient absorption is a function of the intestines, where digested food molecules are taken up into the bloodstream. Therefore, producing insulin and glucagon is the specific and significant role of islet cells in the pancreas.