Pancreas

{
  "id": "MLC-T-ENV-020166",
  "term": "Pancreas",
  "field": "Environment",
  "definition": "1. A nodular organ in the abdomen that contains a mixture of endocrine glands and exocrine glands. The small endocrine portion consists of the islets of Langerhans secreting a number of hormones into the blood stream. The large exocrine portion (exocrine pancreas) is a compound acinar gland that secretes several digestive enzymes into the pancreatic ductal system that empties into the duodenum.\n\n2. A gland located near the stomach that secretes digestive fluids that help to break down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. The pancreas also secretes the hormones insulin and glucagon, which help to stabilize blood sugar.\n\n3. A glandular organ located in the abdomen. It makes pancreatic juices, which contain enzymes that aid in digestion, and it produces several hormones, including insulin. The pancreas is surrounded by the stomach, intestines, and other organs.\n\n4. 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.",
  "references": [
    "NIH Genetics Home Reference Glossary",
    "NIH AIDS Info Glossary",
    "National Cancer Institute Thesaurus"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/environment/pancreas/"
}