What is the primary function of the pancreas in hormone regulation?

What is the primary function of the pancreas in hormone regulation?

• A. Regulates blood glucose levels.
• B. Secretes stomach acid.
• C. Produces bile.
• D. Regulates calcium balance.

Answer: (A)

Pancreas regulates blood glucose levels through its endocrine tissue, mainly the islets of Langerhans. When blood glucose rises after a meal, beta cells release insulin, which promotes uptake of glucose into liver, muscle, and adipose tissue and its storage as glycogen or fat. When glucose is scarce, alpha cells release glucagon, which signals the liver to convert stored glycogen into glucose and release it into the bloodstream. This hormonal system keeps blood glucose within a narrow range, which is the primary way the pancreas participates in hormone regulation. The pancreas also has exocrine roles, secreting digestive enzymes and bicarbonate into the small intestine, which are not hormonal. The other options refer to stomach acid, bile production, or calcium balance—functions handled by other organs or systems.

Pancreas regulates blood glucose levels through its endocrine tissue, mainly the islets of Langerhans. When blood glucose rises after a meal, beta cells release insulin, which promotes uptake of glucose into liver, muscle, and adipose tissue and its storage as glycogen or fat. When glucose is scarce, alpha cells release glucagon, which signals the liver to convert stored glycogen into glucose and release it into the bloodstream. This hormonal system keeps blood glucose within a narrow range, which is the primary way the pancreas participates in hormone regulation. The pancreas also has exocrine roles, secreting digestive enzymes and bicarbonate into the small intestine, which are not hormonal. The other options refer to stomach acid, bile production, or calcium balance—functions handled by other organs or systems.