How to Test Pancreatic Beta Cell Function
May 13, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Chuanjia
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, pancreatic β-cell function can be assessed using methods such as glucose tolerance test combined with insulin release test, steamed bun meal test combined with insulin release test, C-peptide release test, glucagon stimulation test, and arginine stimulation test. When undergoing pancreatic β-cell function testing, it is important to follow the recommendations and guidance of a physician to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the test results.
Generally, the function of pancreatic β cells can be assessed using methods such as glucose tolerance tests combined with insulin release tests, steamed bun meal tests combined with insulin release tests, C-peptide release tests, glucagon stimulation tests, and arginine stimulation tests. Details are as follows:
1. Glucose Tolerance Test Combined with Insulin Release Test
By observing insulin secretion levels and their changing trends at different time points, the insulin-secreting capacity of pancreatic β cells under glucose stimulation can be evaluated. In healthy individuals, insulin levels rapidly increase after glucose intake, peaking at 30–60 minutes, then gradually decline. In individuals with impaired β cell function, the insulin secretion peak may be delayed or insufficient.
2. Steamed Bun Meal Test Combined with Insulin Release Test
The steamed bun meal test combined with insulin release test serves a similar purpose as the glucose tolerance test combined with insulin release test. However, the steamed bun meal test better mimics daily dietary conditions and is more suitable for patients who cannot tolerate glucose or have impaired gastrointestinal function. It can better reflect the functional status of pancreatic β cells under physiological dietary stimulation.
3. C-Peptide Release Test
The C-peptide release test more accurately reflects the secretory function of pancreatic β cells, especially for patients currently receiving insulin therapy. It can eliminate interference from exogenous insulin in test results and thus better assess the true secretory capacity of the patient's own pancreatic β cells.
4. Glucagon Stimulation Test
The glucagon stimulation test assesses the reserve function of pancreatic β cells by administering glucagon to stimulate insulin secretion. In individuals with normal β cell function, insulin or C-peptide levels rapidly increase after glucagon injection. In those with impaired function, the secretory response is diminished.
5. Arginine Stimulation Test
The arginine stimulation test involves using arginine to stimulate insulin secretion from pancreatic β cells. This test evaluates the response capability of β cells to non-glucose stimuli. For patients with atypical results from glucose stimulation tests or abnormal glucose metabolism, the arginine stimulation test can help further evaluate pancreatic β cell function.
When performing pancreatic β-cell function tests, it is important to follow medical advice and instructions to ensure accuracy and reliability of the results. Additionally, for patients already using exogenous insulin, C-peptide rather than insulin levels should generally be measured during islet function testing to avoid interference from exogenous insulin.
