Definitions for "Alpha Cell"
A type of cell in the endocrine pancreas that secretes the hormone glucagon.
A type of cell in an area of the pancreas called the islets of Langerhans. Alpha cells make and release a hormone called "glucagon." Glucagon functions in direct opposition to insulin. In other words, it increases the amount of glucose in the blood by releasing stored sugar from the liver.
A type of cell in the pancreas. Alpha cells make and release a hormone called glucagon. The body sends a signal to the alpha cells to make glucagon when blood glucose concentrations fall too low. Glucagon reaches the liver and tells it to release glucose into the bloodstream for energy.