Module 5 : Structure and function of the pancreas

Question 1

Is the pancreas an example of an exocrine or an endocrine gland?

Answer 1

it has roles as both an exocrine or an endocrine gland

Question 2

What is the function of the pancreas as an exocrine gland?

What is the function of the pancreas as an endocrine gland?

Answer 2

to produce enzymes and release them via a duct

to produce hormones and release them into the blood

Question 3

Name the three important enzymes produced by the pancreas and state the role of each

Answer 3

amylases-break down starch into simple sugars

proteases-break down proteins into amino acids

lipases-break down lipids into fatty acids and glycerol

Question 4

Name the 2 hormones produced by the pancreas

What are these hormones essential for?

Answer 4

insulin and glucagon

controlling blood glucose concentration

Question 5

Where within the exocrine tissue of the pancreas are insulin and glucagon produced

Where are these hormones secreted to?

Answer 5

in the islets of Langerhans

directly into the bloodstream

Question 6

Name the 2 different types of cells within the islets of Langerhans , then name which hormone they produce/secrete?

Answer 6

alpha cells-produce and secrete glucagon

beta cells-produce and secrete insulin

Question 7

Blood glucose concentration can be increased through … 3

describe each

Answer 7

diet-through eating carb rich foods , these are broken down in the digestive system to release glucose

glycogenolysis-glycogen stored in the liver is broken down into glucose which is released into the bloodstream

gluconeogenesis-production of glucose from non carb sources , involves amino acids and glycerol

Question 8

Blood glucose concentration can be decreased by … 2

Answer 8

respiration-some glucose is used by cells to release energy for normal bodily functions ,when exercising more glucose is needed to supply the body with energy to allow muscles to contract

glycogenesis-when concentration is too high , excess glucose is taken in and converted into glycogen in the liver

Question 9

Describe the role of insulin in regulating blood glucose concentration

make 3 points

Answer 9

• beta cells detect a rise in blood glucose concentration and secrete insulin directly into blood stream

insulin binds to glycoprotein receptors on body cells , it changes the tertiary structure of glucose transport protein channels

this causes channels to open allowing more glucose to enter the cells

Question 10

Give the 5 ways insulin decreases blood glucose concentration in the body…

Answer 10

1)increases rate of absorption of glucose by cells
2)increases respiratory rate of cells
3)by stimulating the liver to increase the rate of glycogenesis so glycogen can be stored in liver and muscle cells
4)increasing the rate of glucose to fat conversion
5)inhibiting release of glucagon from alpha cells in islets of Langerhans