Which cells produce hormones to regulate blood sugar?

The cells that produce hormones to regulate blood sugar are known as pancreatic islets, specifically the islets of Langerhans located in the pancreas. Within these islets, there are different types of cells that perform specific functions. For example, beta cells produce insulin, which decreases blood sugar levels by facilitating the uptake of glucose into cells and promoting its storage as glycogen in the liver and muscles. Conversely, alpha cells produce glucagon, which raises blood sugar levels by triggering the release of glucose from storage sites in the liver. This balance between insulin and glucagon is essential for maintaining stable blood sugar levels in the body.

The other options do not directly produce the hormones responsible for regulating blood sugar. Liver cells, while they play a crucial role in glucose metabolism, do not secrete hormones; rather, they respond to the hormones produced by the pancreas. The adrenal glands produce hormones, including cortisol and adrenaline, which can influence blood sugar levels indirectly but are not primarily responsible for direct regulation. Thyroid glands produce hormones that mainly regulate metabolism and energy levels rather than blood sugar levels. Thus, the pancreatic islets are the key players in the hormonal regulation of blood sugar in the body.