endocrine pancreas development

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The process whose specific outcome is the progression of the endocrine pancreas over time, from its formation to the mature structure. The endocrine pancreas is made up of islet cells that produce insulin, glucagon and somatostatin. [GOC:cvs]

The endocrine pancreas, responsible for hormone production and blood glucose regulation, develops through a complex and precisely orchestrated series of events. This process begins with the formation of the pancreatic bud from the endoderm of the primitive gut tube. As the bud expands and differentiates, it gives rise to both exocrine and endocrine compartments. The endocrine pancreas arises from specialized cells, known as endocrine progenitors, that arise within the developing bud. These progenitors express specific transcription factors, such as Pdx1 and Ngn3, which are critical for their commitment to endocrine fate.

Once endocrine progenitors are established, they undergo further differentiation into the various endocrine cell types, including alpha cells (glucagon), beta cells (insulin), delta cells (somatostatin), and PP cells (pancreatic polypeptide). The differentiation process is influenced by a complex interplay of signaling molecules, transcription factors, and epigenetic modifications. Notably, Notch signaling plays a crucial role in regulating the balance between endocrine and exocrine cell fates, while Wnt signaling promotes endocrine differentiation.

Endocrine cell development involves the expression of specific hormone genes and the acquisition of functional secretory granules containing the respective hormones. These granules are crucial for storing and releasing hormones in response to physiological cues.

Furthermore, the developing endocrine pancreas undergoes a process of vascularization, providing a rich blood supply for hormone release and distribution throughout the body.

The proper development of the endocrine pancreas is essential for maintaining glucose homeostasis and overall metabolic health. Dysregulation of this process can lead to various endocrine disorders, such as diabetes mellitus. Understanding the intricate molecular mechanisms governing endocrine pancreas development is crucial for developing therapeutic strategies for these disorders.'
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Proteins (4)

Compounds (16)