Composition and Functions of Pancreas

Pancreas 
The pancreas is a long, soft organ that lies transversely in the abdomen between the kidneys and near the duodenum of the small intestine. It is composed of two types of tissues: One produces and secretes the digestive juices that are carried by the ducts to the small intestine, and the other, called the pancreatic islets (of Langer­hans), produces and secretes the hormones insulin and glucagon directly into the blood. Insulin is secreted by beta cells, and glucagon is secreted by alpha cells.
Insulin is secreted when the blood glucose level is high, which usually occurs immediately after eating. In­sulin has three different actions: (1) It stimulates all cells, and in particular fat, liver, and muscle cells, to absorb and metabolize glucose; (2) it stimulates the liver and muscles to store glucose as glycogen; and (3) it promotes the buildup of fats and proteins, and inhibits their use as an energy source so that they will be available during leaner times. As a result of its activities, insulin lowers the blood glucose level.
Glucagon is secreted from the pancreas between meals, and its effects are opposite those of insulin. Glucagon stimulates the breakdown of glycogen and raises the blood glucose level.
The pancreas produces and secretes the hormones insulin and glucagon. Insulin lovvers the blood glucose level. while glucagon raises the blood glucose level.

Posted in Human Anatomy and Physiology