Which of the following is NOT considered an exocrine function of the pancreas?

The pancreas has both exocrine and endocrine functions. The exocrine function involves the secretion of digestive enzymes and fluids into the gastrointestinal tract, specifically the small intestine, to aid in digestion.

Secreting pancreatic lipase, pancreatic amylase, and pancreatic juice are all consistent with the pancreas's exocrine functions. Pancreatic lipase helps in the digestion of fats, pancreatic amylase aids in carbohydrate digestion, and pancreatic juice is a mixture of digestive enzymes and bicarbonate that neutralizes stomach acid and facilitates digestive processes in the small intestine.

In contrast, producing and releasing insulin into the bloodstream is an endocrine function of the pancreas. Insulin is a hormone critical for regulating blood glucose levels and is secreted directly into the blood, rather than through a duct to the digestive system. This distinction clarifies that option regarding insulin represents a function distinct from the exocrine roles of the pancreas.