The destruction of which of the following pancreatic cells results in type 1 diabetes mellitus, or insulin-dependent diabetes?

Rationale

Destruction of beta cells results in type 1 diabetes mellitus.

Beta cells, located in the islets of Langerhans in the pancreas, are responsible for producing insulin. In type 1 diabetes mellitus, an autoimmune response leads to the destruction of these beta cells, resulting in insufficient insulin production and subsequent hyperglycemia.

A (Alpha cells) YOUR ANSWER

Alpha cells are also found in the islets of Langerhans, but they produce glucagon, a hormone that raises blood glucose levels. While they play a role in glucose metabolism, their destruction does not lead to type 1 diabetes, as it is the beta cells that are primarily affected in this condition.

B (F cells) YOUR ANSWER

F cells, also known as PP cells, produce pancreatic polypeptide, which is involved in regulating both the endocrine and exocrine functions of the pancreas. The destruction of F cells is not associated with diabetes mellitus, as their role is not directly linked to insulin production or glucose regulation.

C (Beta cells) CORRECT

As mentioned, beta cells are crucial for insulin production. In type 1 diabetes, the immune system mistakenly targets and destroys these cells, leading to a lack of insulin. This deficiency is the hallmark of type 1 diabetes mellitus, making the destruction of beta cells the primary concern in this condition.

D (Delta cells) YOUR ANSWER

Delta cells produce somatostatin, a hormone that regulates the secretion of both insulin and glucagon. Although they have an important regulatory function, the destruction of delta cells does not lead to type 1 diabetes, as insulin deficiency stems specifically from the loss of beta cells.

Conclusion

Type 1 diabetes mellitus is characterized by the destruction of beta cells in the pancreas, which results in inadequate insulin production and the consequent inability to regulate blood glucose levels. Other pancreatic cells, such as alpha, F, and delta cells, do not directly influence the onset of type 1 diabetes, highlighting the critical role of beta cells in maintaining metabolic homeostasis.

The destruction of which of the following pancreatic cells results in type 1 diabetes mellitus, or insulin-dependent diabetes?

Destruction of beta cells results in type 1 diabetes mellitus.

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