摘要：D -Aspartate is a putative modulator of neuroendocrine functions, and is present in various neuroendocrine cells as well as the central nervous system. Here we show that the islet of Langerhans is a D -aspartate-containing endocrine organ. Immunohistochemical analysis with specific antibodies against D -aspartate indicated that D -aspartate is present in all islet cells, and predominantly present in α cells and a subpopulation of F-cells. Since these cells are glutamatergic in nature, it is possible that D -aspartate is involved in the glutamate signaling pathways in the islets.
关键词：D -aspartate;islets of Langerhans;α cell;β cell;insulin
