Human Pancreas: Structure, Function, Disease

Pancreas roles: endocrine and exocrine functions

The pancreas is a mixed (heterocrine) gland with both endocrine and exocrine functions. About 99% of its tissue is exocrine, producing digestive secretions, while about 1% is endocrine, producing hormones that regulate metabolism. Endocrine function: The endocrine pancreas is organized into pancreatic islets (islets of Langerhans). Alpha cells secrete glucagon to raise blood glucose, beta cells secrete insulin to lower blood glucose, and delta cells secrete somatostatin, which inhibits the release of insulin and glucagon. These hormones help maintain blood glucose homeostasis. Exocrine function: The exocrine pancreas secretes pancreatic juice into the duodenum via pancreatic ducts. This juice contains bicarbonate to neutralize stomach acid and digestive enzymes (zymogens) that break down carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Together, these endocrine and exocrine roles link blood sugar regulation with digestion.

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Pancreas gross anatomy: head, neck, body, tail

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