Kõhunäärmerakkude

Kõhunäärmerakkude, often translated as pancreatic cells, are the functional units of the pancreas, a vital organ located in the abdomen. These cells are broadly categorized into two main types based on their function: endocrine cells and exocrine cells.

The endocrine cells, clustered in the islets of Langerhans, are responsible for producing and secreting hormones directly into the bloodstream. The most well-known of these are beta cells, which produce insulin, a hormone crucial for regulating blood sugar levels. Alpha cells produce glucagon, which also plays a role in blood glucose homeostasis by raising blood sugar. Other endocrine cells within the islets produce somatostatin and pancreatic polypeptide, which have more localized regulatory effects.

The exocrine cells, comprising the majority of the pancreas's cellular mass, are responsible for producing digestive enzymes. These acinar cells secrete a potent mixture of enzymes, including amylase (for carbohydrate digestion), lipase (for fat digestion), and proteases like trypsin and chymotrypsin (for protein digestion). These digestive enzymes are released into the pancreatic ducts and transported to the small intestine, where they aid in the breakdown of food. The coordinated function of both endocrine and exocrine pancreatic cells is essential for overall metabolic health and nutrient absorption.