I. Introduction The mandate for this chapter is to review the anatomy and histology of the pancreas . The pancreas (meaning all flesh) lies in the upper abdomen behind the stomach. The pancreas is part of the gastrointestinal system that makes and secretes digestive enzymes into the intestine, and also an endocrine organ that makes and secretes hormones into the blood to control energy metabolism and storage throughout the body. It is worthwhile to mention a few definitions for key terms as ... The pancreas is a long, slender organ, most of which is located posterior to the bottom half of the stomach (Figure 17.9.1). Although it is primarily an exocrine gland, secreting a variety of digestive enzymes, the pancreas also has endocrine cells. Its pancreatic islets —clusters of cells formerly known as the islets of Langerhans—secrete the hormones glucagon, insulin, somatostatin, and pancreatic polypeptide (PP). Figure 17.9.1 – Pancreas : Pancreas endocrine function involves the ... The pancreas is a vital organ in the human body that serves dual functions: it acts as an endocrine gland by producing hormones such as insulin and glucagon The pancreas is composed of acinar cells, which produce digestive enzymes, and pancreatic islets, which regulate hormone secretion. It is a retroperitoneal organ, meaning it is located behind the peritoneal cavity.
