RMA Northstar Practice Exam

The pancreas plays a crucial role in the regulation of blood sugar levels and the overall metabolic process. Within the pancreas, there are clusters of cells known as the islets of Langerhans, which contain several types of cells, including alpha, beta, and delta cells. The delta cells are specifically responsible for the production and secretion of somatostatin.

Somatostatin functions as an inhibitory hormone. It regulates the endocrine system by inhibiting the release of growth hormone from the pituitary gland and suppressing the secretion of other hormones, such as insulin and glucagon, from the pancreas. This regulation is essential for maintaining balance in various metabolic functions, including glucose metabolism.

Thus, the correct answer is linked to the unique function and location of somatostatin-producing cells within the pancreas, emphasizing its role in metabolic regulation. Understanding this relationship illustrates the pancreas's multifaceted function beyond just insulin production, showcasing its overall significance in endocrine regulation.