The pancreas /ˈpæŋkriəs/ is a glandular organ in the digestive system and endocrine system of vertebrates. It is both an endocrine gland producing several important hormones, including insulin, glucagon, somatostatin, and pancreatic polypeptide, and a digestive organ, secreting pancreatic juice containing digestive enzymes that assist the absorption of nutrients and the digestion in the small intestine. These enzymes help to further break down the carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids in the chyme.
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Famous quotes containing the word pancreas:
“We don’t invent our natures. They’re issued to us along with our lungs, our pancreas and everything else.”
—Michael Mann, U.S. screenwriter. Hannibal Lechtor (Brian Cox)