Islet size, cellular composition, and spatial location are interconnected in the human pancreas
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 26, 2026

Computer-assisted Large-scale Visualization and Quantification of Pancreatic Islet Mass, Size Distribution and Architecture
Published on: March 4, 2011
Abstract:
Stem cell-derived islets (SC-islets), a promising therapy for type-1 diabetes, are often dissociated and reaggregated into standardized sizes. However, the relationship between endocrine cell composition and size has not been precisely defined in native human islets. In this study, we examined relationships between islet size, composition, and spatial distribution throughout the whole pancreata of 10 well-characterized and biometrically diverse donors. Insulin, glucagon, and somatostatin stains were used to identify the major endocrine cell types. Islets ranging in size from non-islet single cells and small clusters (niSSCs) to >500 μm were analyzed. Islet composition strongly correlated with islet size, with large islets having increased alpha-cell fractions. Delta-cell fraction was consistent across sizes. Approximately 80% of the total endocrine area was contained in islets positive for all three hormones. Spatial analysis additionally revealed clustering among niSSCs, tri-hormone-positive islets, and cells/clusters composed of a single cell type.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
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...
Pancreas
The broad head of the pancreas lies within the loop formed by the duodenum, while its slender body reaches towards the spleen. The tail of the pancreas is short and...
Structures of the Endocrine System
Insulin Secretory Vesicles
Insulin: Biosynthesis, Chemistry, and Preparation
Damage or functional impairment of β-cells inhibits insulin production, leading to diabetes. Diabetes treatment primarily uses...

