Alpha Cells Glucagon — FRCA Primary MCQ
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Correct answer: E — Alpha cells that predominantly secrete glucagon
The best answer is “Alpha cells that predominantly secrete glucagon”. Glucagon is secreted by pancreatic alpha cells and raises plasma glucose through hepatic glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis. Beta cells secrete insulin, delta cells somatostatin and PP cells pancreatic polypeptide. Identifying the cell type is relevant to the integrated counter-regulatory response to hypoglycaemia.
Reference: Royal College of Anaesthetists, Primary FRCA Syllabus 2021: https://www.rcoa.ac.uk/sites/default/files/documents/2026-01/Primary-FRCA-Syllabus.pdf