Which hormones are primarily produced by the pancreas to regulate blood glucose levels?

The pancreas plays a crucial role in maintaining glucose homeostasis through the production of hormones that directly influence blood sugar levels. Insulin and glucagon are the key hormones secreted by the pancreas that serve opposing functions in blood glucose regulation.

Insulin is produced by the beta cells of the islets of Langerhans in the pancreas and acts to decrease blood glucose levels. It facilitates the uptake of glucose by cells, promoting its use for energy and storage as glycogen in the liver and muscle tissues.

Glucagon, on the other hand, is produced by the alpha cells of the islets of Langerhans and serves to increase blood glucose levels. It prompts the liver to convert stored glycogen back into glucose (a process known as glycogenolysis) and to produce glucose from amino acids (gluconeogenesis). This release of glucose into the bloodstream helps to maintain adequate energy levels, especially in response to fasting or low carbohydrate intake.

These two hormones work in a feedback loop to ensure blood glucose levels remain stable, especially after meals or during periods of fasting. Their dynamic interplay is essential for metabolic health, making the combination of insulin and glucagon the correct choice for this question.