Healthwise

Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Islet cells and islet cell antibodies

Islet cells are located in the pancreas and make hormones, including insulin, glucagon, somatomammotropin, and pancreatic polypeptide. In some people, the immune system produces islet cell antibodies, which attack and destroy the islet cells as though they were foreign substances. This can lead to serious health conditions, such as type 1 diabetes.