Which cells produce hormones to regulate blood sugar?

The pancreatic islets, also known as islets of Langerhans, are clusters of cells within the pancreas that play a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels. They house several types of endocrine cells, including beta cells and alpha cells, which produce pivotal hormones.

Beta cells are specifically responsible for producing insulin, a hormone that lowers blood glucose levels by facilitating the uptake of glucose into cells. Conversely, alpha cells produce glucagon, which raises blood glucose levels by promoting the release of glucose stored in the liver.

Thus, while both alpha and beta cells directly contribute to blood sugar regulation, the pancreatic islets encompass these various cell types that collectively manage glucose levels in the body. This is why the pancreatic islets are the correct answer in this context, as they include the hormone-producing cells essential for blood sugar regulation.