Pancreas
The pancreas is both an exocrine and endocrine gland. It is found in the upper left abdomen below the stomach, surrounded by the duodenum. The head of the pancreas is the widest part of the organ and lies in the curve of the duodenum. The tapered left side of the pancreas extends slightly upward (called the body of the pancreas) and ends near the spleen (called the tail of the pancreas).
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Pancreas
Two types of Pancreatic Glands:
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Exocrine
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Endocrine
The exocrine gland secretes digestive enzymes. These enzymes are secreted into a network of ducts that join the main pancreatic duct, which runs the length of the pancreas. The endocrine gland consists of the Islets of Langerhans, it secretes hormones into the bloodstream.
Exocrine Functions:
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Enzymes secreted in the pancreas help break down carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and acids.
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These enzymes travel down the pancreatic duct into the bile duct in an inactive form.
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When these enzymes reach the duodenum and enter it they are activated.
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The exocrine tissue also secretes a bicarbonate to neutralize stomach acid in the duodenum.
Endocrine Functions:
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Hormones secreted by the pancreas are insulin and glucagon (which regulate the level of glucose in the blood).
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Secretes Somatostatin (which regulates and prevents the release of other two hormones).
The Islets of Langerhans are endocrine cell clusters that secrete insulin and glucagon. The pancreas has both digestive and hormonal functions.
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