13. Intro to Digestion & Absorption

Question 1

What are the functions of the pancreas; endocrine cells?

Answer 1

Islets secrete insulin and glucagon into bloodstream

Question 2

What are the functions of the pancreas; exocrine cells?

Answer 2

Acinar cells and epithelial cells of duct system secrete pancreatic juice into duodenum

Question 3

Give an overview of pancreatic secretions

Answer 3

2L/Day alkaline fluid which is bicarbonate rich

Mechanism similar to salivary secretion

Control predominantly hormonal (secretin and CKK)

Question 4

Outline the control of fluid secretion from the pancreas

Answer 4

Strongly H+ material enters duodenum - empties stomach

Release of secretin from duodenal mucosa

Pancreas secretes PJ into duodenum

Acid neutralised by PJ

Question 5

Outline the control of enzyme secretion from pancreas

Answer 5

Peptides and fats enter duodenum as stomach empties

Causes CKK release from duodenal mucosa

PJ secreted to digest peptides and fats

Question 6

Pancreatic secretions includ lipases, amylases, nucleases and…

Answer 6

Proteolytic enzymes;

Endo and exopeptidases

Question 7

Where are proteolytic enzymes form the pancreas activated?

Answer 7

Small intestine

Involves enterokinase

Question 8

Therapeutic uses of pancreatic enzymes

Answer 8

Pancreatin;

CF
Pancreatectomy
Chronic pancreatitis

Question 9

Therapeutic uses of pancreatic enzyme inhibitors

Answer 9

Acarbose: inhibits a-glucosidases (delays digestion) used in diabetic patients

Orlistat: inhibits pancreatic lipase reducing fat absorption