What is the endocrine function of the pancreas?

The endocrine function of the pancreas primarily involves the regulation of blood glucose levels through the secretion of hormones, most notably insulin and glucagon. Insulin is released by the beta cells of the islets of Langerhans in response to elevated blood sugar levels, facilitating glucose uptake by cells for energy or storage as glycogen in the liver and muscle. Conversely, glucagon, secreted by the alpha cells, acts to raise blood glucose levels when they are low by promoting the conversion of glycogen back to glucose in the liver.

The other functions listed relate to the pancreas’s exocrine role, where it produces digestive enzymes. While the pancreas does play a crucial part in digestion and waste removal through its exocrine secretions, these functions do not pertain to its endocrine capabilities. Producing bile acids is also not a function of the pancreas; that is the role of the liver. Understanding the distinction between these functions is key in recognizing how the pancreas contributes to overall metabolism and homeostasis in the body through its hormonal actions.