What is the Pancreas? Physiological role of the pancreas

In fact, many people do not understand the pancreas. In fact, the pancreas is divided into two parts: the exocrine gland and the endocrine gland. Its physiological functions and pathological changes are closely related to our lives, so we should also pay attention to the prevention of pancreatitis.

1. Introduction to the Pancreas

1. The pancreas is divided into two parts: the exocrine gland and the endocrine gland. The exocrine glands are composed of alveoli and ducts. The alveoli secrete pancreatic juice, and the ducts are the channels through which the pancreatic juice is discharged. Pancreatic juice contains sodium bicarbonate, trypsinogen, lipase, amylase, etc. Pancreatic juice is discharged into the duodenum through the pancreatic duct, where it digests proteins, fats and sugars.

2. The endocrine glands are composed of cell clusters of different sizes - pancreatic islets. Pancreatic islets are mainly composed of four types of cells: A cells, B cells, D cells, and PP cells. A cells secrete glucagon to increase blood sugar; B cells secrete insulin to lower blood sugar; D cells secrete somatostatin to inhibit the secretion of A and B cells in a paracrine manner; PP cells secrete pancreatic polypeptide to inhibit gastrointestinal motility, pancreatic juice secretion and gallbladder contraction.

2. Function

1. Deep in our upper abdomen there is a very inconspicuous small organ - the pancreas. Although the pancreas is small, it plays an extraordinary role and is one of the most important organs in the human body. Because it is a gland with exocrine function, its physiological effects and pathological changes are closely related to life.

2. The pancreas is "hidden" behind the peritoneum, so it is far less well-known than the stomach, duodenum, liver, and gallbladder. However, the digestive enzymes in the pancreatic juice secreted by the pancreas play a "protagonist" role in the food digestion process, especially the digestion of fat.

The main component of exocrine secretion is pancreatic juice, which contains alkaline bicarbonate and various digestive enzymes. Its main function is to neutralize gastric acid and digest sugar, protein and fat.