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How is the function of pancreas? |
The pancreas is a dual-function gland, having features of both endocrine and exocrine glands.The part of the pancreas with endocrine function is made up of approximately a million cell clusters called islets of Langerhans. Four main cell types exist in the islets. They are relatively difficult to distinguish using standard staining techniques, but they can be classified by their secretion: cells secrete glucagon (increase glucose in blood), cells secrete insulin (decrease glucose in blood), cells secrete somatostatin and PP cells, or gamma cells, secrete pancreatic polypeptide. The pancreas as an exocrine gland helps out the digestive system. It secretes pancreatic fluid that contains digestive enzymes that pass to the small intestine. These enzymes help to further break down the carbohydrates, proteins and lipids (fats) in the chyme.In humans, the secretory activity of the pancreas is regulated directly via the effect of hormones in the blood on the islets of Langerhans and indirectly through the effect of the autonomic nervous system on the blood flow. |