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Glucagon antibodies alter Langerhans' islets.
Biomedica Biochimica Acta
|January 1, 1984
Summary
Passive transfer of anti-glucagon antibodies into mice causes inflammation and alpha cell hyperplasia. Active immunization in rabbits also leads to alpha cell hyperplasia, suggesting glucagon
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Endocrinology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Glucagon is a key hormone regulating blood glucose.
- The role of glucagon in pancreatic alpha cell proliferation is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of anti-glucagon antibodies and active immunization on pancreatic alpha cells.
Main Methods:
- Passive antibody transfer of rabbit anti-glucagon antibodies into mice.
- Active immunization of rabbits with heterologous glucagon.
Main Results:
- Passive antibody transfer induced periinsular and intrainsular inflammation and alpha cell hyperplasia in mice.
- Active immunization in rabbits resulted in alpha cell hyperplasia.
Conclusions:
- Glucagon or its antibodies can stimulate pancreatic alpha cell proliferation.
- These findings suggest a potential role for glucagon in alpha cell growth and regeneration.