What are the 3 main functions of the pancreas?
The pancreas contains exocrine glands that produce enzymes important to digestion. These enzymes include trypsin and chymotrypsin to digest proteins; amylase for the digestion of carbohydrates; and lipase to break down fats.
What happens if pancreas is not working?
If the pancreas does not produce enough digestive enzymes, for example, food will not be properly absorbed. This can lead to weight loss and diarrhea. The islets of Langerhans are responsible for regulating blood glucose.
What is the uncinate process of the pancreas?
The uncinate process is a hook like extension from the lower part of the head of the pancreas, and it extends superiorly and posteriorly behind the superior mesenteric vein (SMV), and ends either to the right side or extending behind the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) 1.
What drains the pancreas?
The head and neck of the pancreas drain into the superior and inferior pancreaticoduodenal veins. The superior veins drain partly into the right gastroepiploic vein and partly into the portal vein directly. The inferior pancreaticoduodenal veins drain into the superior mesenteric vein.
What are the two functions of the pancreas?
The pancreas is really two glands that are mixed together into one organ with two separate functions. The bulk of the pancreas is composed of “exocrine” (exo=outward) cells that produce enzymes to help with the digestion of food.
What is the role of the pancreatic polypeptide cell?
The pancreatic polypeptide cell (PP cell) accounts for about one percent of islet cells and secretes the pancreatic polypeptide hormone. It is thought to play a role in appetite, as well as in the regulation of pancreatic exocrine and endocrine secretions.
What does sympathetic innervation do to the pancreas?
In contrast, sympathetic fibers cause vasoconstriction and inhibition of exocrine secretion, in other words, inhibition of pancreatic juice. In relation to hormonal release, sympathetic innervation stimulates the release of glucagon but inhibits that of insulin.
What is the function of beta cells in the pancreas?
In a nutshell, beta cells secrete insulin, alpha cells release glucagon, and delta cells produce somatostatin. These hormones are crucial in regulating glucose metabolism and gastrointestinal functions. If you want a more in-depth explanation about the internal structure, including the histology of the pancreas, take a sneak peek below.