Which hormone(s) is/are secreted by the endocrine pancreas (islets of Langerhans)?

• A. Thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3)
• B. Aldosterone and cortisol
• C. Insulin and glucagon
• D. Epinephrine and norepinephrine

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the endocrine pancreas consists of clusters of cells called the islets of Langerhans, which secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream to regulate blood glucose levels.
2. Recall the main hormones produced by the islets of Langerhans: insulin, which lowers blood glucose by facilitating cellular uptake, and glucagon, which raises blood glucose by stimulating glycogen breakdown in the liver.
3. Recognize that thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) are thyroid hormones produced by the thyroid gland, not the pancreas.
4. Know that aldosterone and cortisol are steroid hormones secreted by the adrenal cortex, and epinephrine and norepinephrine are catecholamines secreted by the adrenal medulla, so these are not products of the pancreas.
5. Conclude that the correct hormones secreted by the endocrine pancreas (islets of Langerhans) are insulin and glucagon.