Pancreas Function: Digestion & Key Roles Explained

The pancreas is a dual‑function gland: exocrine (digestion) and endocrine (glucose regulation).

Exocrine (Digestive)

Secretes into duodenum via pancreatic duct:

• Amylase: Starch → maltose/glucose
• Proteases (trypsin, chymotrypsin): Protein → peptides/amino acids
• Lipase: Triglycerides → fatty acids/monoglycerides
• Bicarbonate: Neutralizes chyme

Stimulated by CCK (fat/protein) and secretin (acid).

Endocrine (Islets of Langerhans)

• β‑cells – Insulin: ↓ blood glucose (uptake, storage)
• α‑cells – Glucagon: ↑ blood glucose (glycogenolysis, gluconeogenesis)
• δ‑cells – Somatostatin: Inhibits insulin/glucagon
• PP cells – Pancreatic polypeptide: Regulates exocrine secretion, appetite

Key Disorders

• Pancreatitis (acute/chronic)
• Pancreatic adenocarcinoma
• Diabetes mellitus (type 1: autoimmune β‑cell loss; type 2: insulin resistance + β‑cell dysfunction)