The pancreas is an important compound
gland of the human body.
Some of the functions of the pancreas are as an endocrine
gland - whose function is an important aspect of the endocrine
system. Other important aspects of the pancreas are as an exocrine gland
- secreting enzymes necessary for the digestive system.
Endocrine glands differ from "exocrine" glands
in that exocrine glands have ducts (so may be referred to as "ducted")
whereas endocrine glands do not have ducts (and so may be referred to
as "ductless").
Hormones secreted by the pancreas acting as an
endocrine gland: |
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Glucagon |
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Insulin |
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Enzymes secreted by the pancreas acting as an
exocrine gland: |
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Pancreatic juice is secreted by the pancreas and
can include the following (in various concentrations - determined
by hormones secreted
by the duodenum):
Sodium bicarbonate (which neutralizes the acidity of the contents
of the stomach), also the enzymes trypsinogen, chymotrypsinogen,
amylase, lipase, and maltase.
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For a diagram indicating the locations within the body of each of
the endocrine glands, visit: Endocrine
Glands of the Human Body. This may be of particular interest
to students of courses in massage, reflexology,
beauty therapies, and other basic-level medical or clinical courses.
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