Lesson 1
Down the line
L cells are found mostly in the last part of your small intestine and in your large intestine. That's a long way from your mouth!
An L cell is tall and thin. Its top touches the food passing by. Its bottom holds tiny bubbles of two hormones: GLP-1 and GLP-2.
Try thisScroll up to the 3D model and press Send GLP to watch the hormones go into the blood.
Lesson 2
Two helpers in one
- GLP-1 tells the pancreas to release insulin when blood sugar is up. It also slows the stomach and helps you feel full.
- GLP-2 helps the lining of your gut grow and stay healthy.
So L cells help with blood sugar, with knowing when you've had enough, and with looking after the gut itself.
Wow!Some medicines for diabetes work by copying the GLP-1 messenger that L cells make.