Islets of Langerhans

Islets of Langerhans: their role in the treatment of diabetes

The islets of Langerhans are groups of cells found in the pancreas. They were discovered back in the 19th century, but their function became clear only after German researchers Minkowski and von Mehring conducted experiments involving the removal of the pancreas from dogs. Their observations showed that when the islets of Langerhans are removed, dogs become diabetic, suggesting that these cells play an important role in regulating blood sugar levels.

Diabetes is a chronic disease characterized by high blood sugar levels. Insulin, a hormone produced by the islets of Langerhans, regulates blood sugar levels. It helps the body's cells use sugar (glucose) for energy. In the case of diabetes, the pancreas does not produce enough insulin, so blood sugar levels rise. This can lead to serious complications such as heart, kidney and eye problems.

The history of the discovery and study of the islets of Langerhans is connected with the history of diabetes treatment. In 1921, Canadian researchers Banting and Best obtained the hormone insulin from the islets of Langerhans, which became the basis for the treatment of diabetes. Insulin has enabled millions of people with diabetes to control their blood sugar levels and avoid serious complications.

Since then, different types of insulin have been developed, varying in their speed of action and route of administration. For example, protamine zinc insulin is absorbed more slowly and can be given once a day. However, as before, insulin cannot be taken orally, as it is destroyed by digestive juices, and must be administered by injection.

Today, diabetes treatment is a complex medical process that includes not only insulin therapy, but also control of diet, physical activity, and other medications. However, a key component of treatment remains insulin, derived from the islets of Langerhans, which continues to be the focus of researchers and clinicians working to improve diabetes treatment.