The human pancreas, an essential organ located behind the stomach, plays crucial roles in digestion and blood glucose regulation through its exocrine and endocrine functions. Anatomically, it is divided into the head, neck, body, and tail. The exocrine function involves the production of digestive enzymes (amylase, lipase, and proteases) by acinar cells, and the secretion of bicarbonate by ductal cells. These enzymes and bicarbonate are released into the small intestine to break down carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, and to neutralize stomach acid, creating an optimal environment for digestion.

 

The endocrine function is carried out by the islets of Langerhans, which contain alpha cells that produce glucagon to raise blood glucose levels, beta cells that produce insulin to lower blood glucose levels, delta cells that produce somatostatin to inhibit glucagon and insulin release, and PP cells that produce pancreatic polypeptide. Hormonal and neural signals regulate pancreatic secretions, with hormones like secretin and cholecystokinin stimulating enzyme and bicarbonate release in response to food. Several conditions can affect the pancreas, including pancreatitis, diabetes mellitus, pancreatic cancer, and cystic fibrosis, each impacting its function and leading to various health issues.