Which organ is primarily responsible for the secretion of insulin?
Solution
Correct Answer: Option A
- The pancreas is the organ primarily responsible for the secretion of insulin.
- Insulin is a vital hormone that plays a central role in regulating blood glucose levels.
- It is produced by the beta cells of the islets of Langerhans within the pancreas.
- When blood glucose levels rise, such as after eating, the pancreas releases insulin to facilitate the uptake of glucose by cells, allowing it to be used for energy or stored for future use.
- The pituitary gland primarily secretes hormones that regulate other endocrine glands but does not produce insulin.
- The adrenal gland secretes hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, which are involved in the stress response.
- The thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate metabolism but is not involved in insulin secretion.
Therefore, the pancreas is the correct answer due to its critical role in glucose metabolism and maintaining blood sugar homeostasis.
Reference: Robbins Basic Pathology, 10th Edition, Chapter 18: Endocrine Pancreas and Diabetes Mellitus