Pancreas

Cancer Terms -> Anatomic Structure System or Substance -> Organ -> Pancreas

Pancreas Definition

An organ behind the lower part of the stomach that is the shape of a fish and about the size of a hand. It is a compound gland composed of both exocrine and endocrine tissues. The endocrine pancreas makes insulin so that the body can use glucose (sugar) for energy. The exocrine pancreas makes enzymes that help the body digest food. Spread all over the pancreas are areas called the Islets of Langerhans. The cells in these areas each have a special purpose. The alpha cells make glucagon, which raises the level of glucose in the blood; the beta cells make insulin; the delta cells make somatostatin. There are also PP cells and D1 cells, about which little is known.

Pancreas Synonyms

Pancreas, Gastrointestinal Tract, Pancreas, PANCREAS, pancreas

Terms in Pancreas category

---

Copyright © Cancer Terms 2014 All rights reserved. | Terms of Use | Low Carb Foods
No reproduction or republication permitted.