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Pancreatic beta-cell web: its possible role in insulin secretion
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|March 10, 1972
Summary
A microfilamentous web in rat pancreatic beta cells is crucial for insulin secretion. Disrupting this cell web with cytochalasin B enhances glucose-induced insulin release, suggesting a role in emiocytosis.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Endocrinology
- Pancreatic Physiology
Background:
- Beta cells in the pancreas contain a distinct cortical band of microfilaments.
- The precise function of this microfilamentous web in beta cell physiology is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of the beta cell microfilamentous web in insulin secretion.
- To determine the effect of cytochalasin B on glucose-induced insulin release.
Main Methods:
- Observation of the cortical microfilamentous band in rat pancreatic beta cells.
- Treatment of isolated pancreatic islets with cytochalasin B.
- Measurement of insulin secretion in response to glucose.
Main Results:
- A consistent cortical band of fine microfilaments was observed in rat pancreatic beta cells.
- Alteration of this microfilamentous web by cytochalasin B led to enhanced glucose-induced insulin secretion.
- These findings suggest the microfilamentous web influences the exocytosis of insulin granules.
Conclusions:
- The beta cell microfilamentous web plays a significant role in regulating insulin secretion.
- Interference with the microfilamentous web can enhance insulin granule exocytosis (emiocytosis).
- The web may control the access of secretory granules to the cell membrane.