Glucagon secreting alpha cells – physiology and metabolism

Glucagon is an important regulator of glucose homeostasis. During fasting, increased levels of glucagon circulate to promote glucose production from the liver. Glucose is therefore considered a potent inhibitor of glucagon secretion. In diseases such as obesity and diabetes, glucose are no longer able to reduce glucagon levels and it is likely that this contributres to hyperglycaemia and metabolic disease. Despite this, we know very little about the glucagon secreting alpha cell.

Our research aims to expand our basic understanding of alpha cells. We are interested in alpha cell metabolism, how glucagon secretion is regulated, how alpha cells interact with the sorrounding environment and how changes in alpha cell function contribute to the development of diabetes.