Which hormone is primarily produced by the pancreas?

The hormone primarily produced by the pancreas is insulin. Insulin is crucial for regulating glucose levels in the blood and facilitating the uptake of glucose by cells for energy production or storage. The pancreas contains clusters of cells known as the islets of Langerhans, which specifically produce insulin in response to rising blood glucose levels, such as after meals.

Insulin plays a vital role in maintaining metabolic homeostasis, promoting the storage of glucose in the liver and muscle, and preventing excessive blood sugar levels, which can lead to complications such as diabetes. Understanding the function of insulin highlights its significance in the endocrine system and its impact on overall health.

Other hormones mentioned such as cortisol, glucagon, and adrenaline are produced by different organs and have distinct functions. Glucagon, for instance, is also produced by the pancreas but works to raise blood glucose levels, serving a counter-regulatory role to insulin. Cortisol is released by the adrenal glands and is involved in stress response and metabolism, while adrenaline (epinephrine) is also produced by the adrenal glands, primarily affecting the fight-or-flight response.