Endocrine Pancreas Function Quiz

Questions and Answers

What is the primary function of beta (β) cells in the endocrine pancreas?

To release glucagon which manages glucose storage

To raise blood sugar levels through insulin production

To secrete somatostatin inhibiting glucose release

To lower blood sugar levels by producing insulin

Which cell type is responsible for producing glucagon in the pancreas?

Alpha (α) Cells (correct)

Delta (δ) Cells

PP Cells

Beta (β) Cells

What hormone is produced by delta (δ) cells and what is its primary role?

Somatostatin, to inhibit the release of insulin and glucagon (correct)

Glucagon, to facilitate glucose uptake by cells

Insulin, to raise blood sugar levels

Serotonin, to enhance digestive enzyme secretion

Which of the following hormones is associated with increasing gastrointestinal activity?

Vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) Signup and view all the answers

In addition to insulin and glucagon, which hormone contributes to the regulation of digestion?

Somatostatin Signup and view all the answers

Which rare cell type produces serotonin and is linked to carcinoid syndrome?

Enterochromaffin Cells Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Endocrine Pancreas Overview

Composed of islets of Langerhans, which house different cell types with unique functions.
Plays a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels and digestion.

Major Cell Types

Beta (β) Cells:
- Produce insulin.
- Lowers blood sugar by facilitating glucose utilization by cells.
Alpha (α) Cells:
- Produce glucagon.
- Raises blood sugar levels by prompting liver to release stored glucose.
Delta (δ) Cells:
- Produce somatostatin.
- Regulates release of insulin and glucagon to maintain balance.
PP Cells:
- Produce pancreatic polypeptide.
- Influences digestion by affecting enzyme secretion and gut motility.

Rare Cell Types

D1 Cells:
- Produce vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP).
- Increases blood sugar and can cause diarrhea.
Enterochromaffin Cells:
- Produce serotonin.
- Associated with carcinoid syndrome tumors.

Disorders Associated with Endocrine Pancreas

Diabetes Mellitus:
- Caused by dysfunction of insulin (β cells) or glucagon (α cells) regulation.
Pancreatic Endocrine Tumors:
- Abnormal growths affecting hormones and their functions in the pancreas.

Description

Test your knowledge on the functions of the endocrine pancreas and its islets of Langerhans. This quiz covers the roles of different cell types including alpha, beta, and delta cells, as well as the PP cells. Understand how these cells contribute to blood sugar regulation.