Function of pancreas:
Pancreas is a flattened gland which is the most vital part of the digestive organ in vertebrates. It is located behind the stomach, in the abdominal cavity which produces hormones like insulin, glucagon, pancreatic polypeptide etc.
The pancreas has dual functions....
- The bulk of pancreas is made up of exocrine cells which produce pancreatic juice, the enzyme that helps to digestion of carbohydrates, proteins and fatty acid. The alkaline fluid introduced to neutralizes the acidic chyme. These digestive enzymes play an important role in the metabolism of ingested foods.
- The second function is the endocrine pancreas composed of many island cells called islets of Langerhans. These cells don't release their secretions into pancreatic ducts, instead of releasing hormones like insulin and glucagons into the blood streams. These hormones regulate glucose and control the blood sugar levels.
