Drive - pancreas Flashcards
What 2 broad types can the functions of the pancreas be spilt into?
exocrine and endocrine
Give an example of an exocrine function of the pancreas:
Acini of the pancreas produces digestive enzymes (which are released via the pancreatic duct)
Give an example of an endocrine function of the pancreas:
Islet of Langerhans produce insulin and glucagon which help regulate blood glucose levels
What do the acinar cells release and what do these do?
Pro-enzymes = carbohydrate, protein and lipid breakdown
Bicarbonate = neutralise chyme in duodenum.
What do alpha cells in the pancreas secrete?
Glucagon = raises blood glucose
What do beta cells in the pancreas secrete?
Insulin = lowers blood glucose
What do delta cells in the pancreas cells secrete?
Somatostatin = inhibits both glucagon and insulin secretion
What supplies blood to the head of the pancreas?
The superior mesenteric artery
What provides venous drainage to the pancreas?
The splenic vein
What cells of the pancreas secrete HCO3-?
Duct cells (the epithelium lining the ducts)
Name 2 functions of the HCO3- secreted by the pancreas?
Protect the duodenal mucosa
Buffer the material entering the duodenum to a pH suitable for enzyme action
Describe the importance of secretin in HCO3- action: (2)
Stimulates the secretion of HCO3-
Increases the action of CCK
Describe the importance of CCK: (4)
Stimulate the secretion of digestive enzymes
Increases the action of secretin
Stimulates contraction of the gall bladder
Relaxes the sphincter of Oddi
Why is it important that the pancreas produce zymogens rather than the active form of the enzyme?
To prevent autodigestion
What is the activation of zymogens in the intestinal epithelial cells mediated by?
Enterokinase
