Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 3, 2026

Assessing Replication and Beta Cell Function in Adenovirally-transduced Isolated Rodent Islets
Published on: June 25, 2012
The neuropeptide pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide and islet function
K Filipsson1, M Kvist-Reimer, B Ahrén
1Department of Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden.
Abstract:
The neuropeptide pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) is ubiquitously distributed in both the central and peripheral nervous systems and exerts a variety of effects. PACAP is a neuropeptide in pancreatic islets, where it has been suggested as a parasympathetic and sensory neurotransmitter. PACAP stimulates insulin secretion in a glucose-dependent manner, by an effect executed mainly through augmenting the formation of cAMP and stimulating the uptake of calcium. Accumulating evidence in animal studies points to a physiological importance of PACAP in the regulation of the insulin response to feeding. This review summarizes the current knowledge of islet actions and mechanisms and the function of PACAP.
Related Concept Videos
Insulin Secretory Vesicles
GPCRs Regulate Adenylyl Cylase Activity
Two...
cAMP-dependent Protein Kinase Pathways
Cells and Secretions of the Pancreas
Exocrine function is carried out by acinar cells, organized into clusters known as acini. These cells contribute to digestion by releasing substantial quantities of enzyme-rich, alkaline digestive juices.
Concurrently, the dispersed clusters of endocrine cells throughout the...
Glucose Homeostasis: Pancreatic Islets and Insulin Secretion
Insulin and C-peptide are co-secreted in...
Glucagon-like Receptor Agonists
GLP-1, when administered in high doses intravenously, triggers insulin secretion, inhibits glucagon release, slows gastric emptying, reduces food intake, and restores normal insulin secretion. However, its rapid inactivation by the...

