Pancreas Pancreas The pancreas is an organ of the digestive system and endocrine system of vertebrates. In humans, it is located in the abdominal cavity behind the stomach. The pancreas is a mixed gland, having both an endocrine and an exocrine function. As an endocrine gland, it secretes into the blood several important hormones, including insulin, glucagon, somatostatin, and pancreatic polypeptide. As an exocrine gland, it secretes pancreatic juice into the duodenum through the pancreatic duct. This juice contains bicarbonate, which neutralizes acid entering the duodenum from the stomach; and digestive enzymes, which break down carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids in ingested
Insulin resistance the likelihood of Type 2 diabetes mellitus. Also, insulin resistance often is associated with a hypercoagulable state (impaired fibrinolysis) and increased inflammatory cytokine levels. Another factor that may promote insulin resistance is Leptin, a hormone produced from the ob gene and adipocytes. Its physiological role is to regulate hunger by alerting the body when it is full. From an adaptation perspective, it is possible that leptin resistance was favorable for survival during periods when food was scarce. Today however studies show that lack of leptin causes severe obesity and is strongly linked with insulin resistance. Leptin replacement in mice with