Which cells of the pancreas are responsible for releasing a hormone that increases the rate of glycogenolysis?

Options

A. `alpha` - cell
B. `beta` - cell
C. `gamma` - cell
D. `delta` - cell

Answer

To solve the question about which cells in the pancreas are responsible for releasing a hormone that increases the rate of glycogenolysis, we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understand Glycogenolysis**:
- Glycogenolysis is the biochemical process where glycogen, a stored form of glucose in the liver and muscles, is broken down into glucose. This process is crucial for providing energy to the body, especially during fasting or intense physical activity.

**Hint**: Remember that glycogenolysis is about breaking down glycogen to release glucose for energy.

2. **Identify the Cells of the Pancreas**:
- The pancreas has two main types of endocrine cells:
- **Alpha cells**: These cells secrete glucagon.
- **Beta cells**: These cells secrete insulin.

**Hint**: Focus on the functions of alpha and beta cells in the pancreas.

3. **Determine the Role of Glucagon**:
- Glucagon, which is secreted by the alpha cells, plays a significant role in increasing blood glucose levels by promoting glycogenolysis. When blood sugar levels are low, glucagon signals the liver to convert glycogen back into glucose.

**Hint**: Glucagon is the hormone that acts to increase blood sugar levels, particularly through glycogenolysis.

4. **Identify the Correct Answer**:
- Since the question asks for the cells responsible for releasing the hormone that increases the rate of glycogenolysis, the correct answer is the **alpha cells** of the pancreas.

**Hint**: Recall that alpha cells release glucagon, which stimulates glycogenolysis.

### Final Answer:
The cells of the pancreas responsible for releasing a hormone that increases the rate of glycogenolysis are the **alpha cells**.