Coupling between beta cells can increase insulin release
Morten Colding-Jørgensen
Scientific Computing. Novo Nordisk A/S,
Novo Nordisk Park, Bygn. B2.2.44. 2760. Måløv, Denmark
Abstract:
The electric behaviour of a beta cell consists of a phase with fast
oscillations - the burst, where insulin release takes place - and a
slow phase, the inter-burst period. The coupling between neighbouring
cells is described. Using a simple model it is shown that there is
almost synchrony between the slow phases, while the fast phases
normally are completely desynchronised. It is demonstrated that
this lack of synchronisation, irregularities and even chaos, can
prolong the burst and thus improve the conditions for insulin release.