American Board of Pathology (ABPath) Practice Test 2026 - Free Pathology Exam Practice Questions and Study Guide

The correct answer is trypsinogen, as it is not part of the endocrine function of the pancreas. The pancreas has both endocrine and exocrine components. Its endocrine function is primarily concerned with the secretion of hormones into the bloodstream to regulate glucose metabolism.

Glucagon, somatostatin, and insulin are all hormones produced by the pancreas. Insulin is secreted by beta cells and is crucial for lowering blood glucose levels. Glucagon, produced by alpha cells, works to raise blood glucose levels by stimulating glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis in the liver. Somatostatin, produced by delta cells, has an inhibitory effect on both insulin and glucagon secretion and helps regulate the overall endocrine function of the pancreas.

Trypsinogen, in contrast, is an inactive precursor of trypsin that is secreted by the exocrine cells of the pancreas, which is involved in the digestion of proteins in the small intestine. It plays no role in the hormonal regulation functions of the pancreas, thus emphasizing why it belongs to the exocrine, not the endocrine, aspect of pancreatic function.