Basics of Human Physiology- Digestion

Sol –

Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps regulate blood sugar (glucose) levels.
It allows cells to absorb glucose from the bloodstream to use it for energy or store it as glycogen in the liver and muscles.
It prevents high blood sugar and plays a vital role in carbohydrate metabolism.
A deficiency or improper functioning of insulin leads to diabetes mellitus, a condition where blood sugar remains abnormally high.

The pancreas is classified as a mixed gland because it has both endocrine and exocrine functions.

Exocrine Function	Endocrine Function
Majority of the pancreas; Secretes digestive enzymes and bicarbonate ions into the small intestine. These enzymes aid in the digestion of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats in the food we consume.	contains clusters of cells called islets of Langerhans, composed of different types of hormone-secreting cells. → secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream to regulate blood sugar levels.
Lipase ⇒ Fat → fatty acid + Glycerol Amylase ⇒ Starch → maltose → Glucose + Glucose Proteases (including trypsin, chymotrypsin, and carboxypeptidase): Break down proteins into smaller peptides and amino acids. Ribonuclease and Deoxyribonuclease: Digest RNA and DNA respectively, breaking them down into nucleotides.	Alpha cells (secrete glucagon): Stimulate the liver to release stored glucose into the bloodstream, raising blood sugar levels during fasting or between meals. Beta cells (secrete insulin): Promote the uptake of glucose from the bloodstream into cells, lowering blood sugar levels. Gamma cells: somatostatin → growth hormone and control secretion of glucose and insulin