ABSTRACT
The pancreas is an endocrine and exocrine organ located centrally posterior to the stomach. It is vital in maintaining glucose control and facilitates the digestion and intestinal absorption of carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids. The ductal network and acinar cells involved in the exocrine function of the pancreas comprise 95% of the pancreatic mass. Clusters of cells called islets of Langerhans represent the endocrine component of the pancreas. Islets consist of four main cell types: alpha cells secrete glucagon, increasing blood glucose; beta cells secrete insulin, decreasing blood glucose; delta cells secrete somatostatin, which helps regulate alpha and beta cells; and gamma cells secrete pancreatic polypeptide. The interplay between these cells within islets of Langerhans helps regulate glucose metabolism and homeostasis.
