Revolutionizing Diabetes Treatment: Alpha Cells as Natural GLP-1 Producers

Recent research from Duke University School of Medicine has challenged traditional views on blood sugar regulation by revealing an unexpected function of pancreatic alpha cells. Previously thought to only produce glucagon—a hormone involved in raising blood sugar during fasting or exercise—these cells are now found to also generate GLP-1, a potent hormone that enhances insulin release and helps regulate glucose levels. Using advanced mass spectrometry techniques, scientists discovered that human alpha cells naturally produce higher levels of bioactive GLP-1 than previously recognized, and this production is directly linked to insulin secretion.

Led by Dr. Jonathan Campbell, the research team examined pancreatic tissues from humans and mice across various ages, weights, and diabetic conditions. Their findings suggest that alpha cells are more adaptable, capable of adjusting hormone output to support beta cells and maintain blood sugar homeostasis. Notably, when glucagon production was blocked in mouse models, alpha cells increased GLP-1 produção, which improved glucose control and stimulated greater insulin release—indicating that GLP-1 can compensate when glucagon synthesis is inhibited.

This discovery has significant implications for diabetes treatment. Although GLP-1 is mainly produced in the gut, this study confirms pancreatic alpha cells can also secrete this hormone into the bloodstream after eating, contributing to blood sugar regulation. Mild metabolic challenges, such as high-fat diets, can modestly boost GLP-1 production from alpha cells, opening new avenues for therapies that aim to enhance the body's natural hormone production. The research team developed a precise mass spectrometry assay to measure bioactive GLP-1 accurately, which may facilitate future studies on boosting GLP-1 levels.

Dr. Campbell emphasizes that these findings suggest the body has a built-in contingency plan: in times of metabolic stress, alpha cells switch from producing glucagon to generating GLP-1, providing a natural mechanism to support insulin secretion and maintain glucose balance. This hormone shift could pave the way for innovative diabetes treatments that harness the body's own cells to produce GLP-1, potentially offering more natural and effective management of blood sugar levels.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-09-alpha-cells-moonlight-secret-glp.html