is·lets of Lang·er·hans (  l ts; läng r-häns )pl.n. Irregular clusters of endocrine cells scattered throughout the tissue of the pancreas that secrete insulin and glucagon. Also called islands of Langerhans. [After Paul Langerhans (1847-1888), German pathologist.] |
islets of Langerhans, islands of Langerhans [ˈlæŋəˌhæns]
pl n
(Life Sciences & Allied Applications / Anatomy) small groups of endocrine cells in the pancreas that secrete the hormones insulin and glucagon
[named after Paul Langerhans (1847-88), German physician]
| islets of Langerhans (lts v längr-häns) Irregular clusters of endocrine cells that are scattered throughout the tissue of the pancreas. The islets of Langerhans contain cells that produce and secrete the hormones insulin and glucagon. |
ThesaurusLegend: Synonyms Related Words Antonyms
| Noun | 1. | islets of Langerhans - cell clusters in the pancreas that form the endocrine part of that organ; secrete insulin and other hormones ductless gland, endocrine gland, endocrine - any of the glands of the endocrine system that secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream pancreas - a large elongated exocrine gland located behind the stomach; secretes pancreatic juice and insulin |
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