Endocrine Pancreatic Cells and Functions of the Pancreas

Introduction

• The endocrine pancreas secretes hormones into the bloodstream.
• Hormones affect various parts of the body - liver, intestines, muscles.

Parts of the Pancreas

Islet Cells

• The endocrine pancreas is composed of islet cells.
• There are three main types of islet cells: alpha, beta, delta.

Alpha Islet Cells

• Secreted hormone: Glucagon.
• Function: Breaks down glycogen into glucose molecules.
• Glucagon causes the breakdown of carbohydrates and macromolecules.

Beta Islet Cells

• Secreted hormone: Insulin.
• Function: Causes the storage or conversion of glucose into glycogen.
• Insulin is responsible for the formation and storage of macromolecules.
• Main association: Diabetes.
  • Diabetes causes high levels of glucose in the body.
  • Symptoms: Eye, nerve, and kidney diseases.

Types of Diabetes

Type 1 Diabetes

• Cause: Insulin is not synthesized.
• Result: Glucose and glycogen cannot be stored, leading to complications.

Type 2 Diabetes

• Cause: Deficiency in insulin receptors.
• Result: Insulin receptors do not respond, leading to complications.

Delta Islet Cells

• Secreted hormone: Somatostatin.
• Function: Inhibits the effects of glucagon, insulin, and other hormones.

Summary

• The endocrine pancreas performs very important functions.
• Care is essential for the health of the pancreas.