Copy of 10.3 The Hormones of the Pancreas.docx

Exocrine Function of Pancreas

Involves secreting digestive enzymes to break down nutrients in the small intestine.

Endocrine Function of Pancreas

Involves the secretion of hormones like insulin and glucagon into the bloodstream.

Insulin

Hormone secreted by beta cells in response to high blood sugar levels, stimulates glucose uptake by tissue cells and conversion of glucose into glycogen in the liver.

Glucagon

Hormone secreted by alpha cells in response to low blood sugar levels, causes the breakdown of glycogen into glucose in the liver.

Hormones Contributing to Blood Glucose Increase

Glucagon, cortisol, hGH (human growth hormone), and epinephrine all play a role in increasing blood glucose levels.