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.