American Board of Pathology (ABPath) Practice Test 2025 - Free Pathology Exam Practice Questions and Study Guide

The substance secreted by the exocrine portion of the pancreas is amylase. The exocrine pancreas is primarily responsible for producing digestive enzymes that aid in the breakdown of food in the intestines. Amylase, specifically, is an enzyme that helps in the digestion of carbohydrates by breaking down starches into sugars. This function is crucial for proper nutrient absorption.

In contrast, insulin and glucagon are hormones produced by the endocrine portion of the pancreas, which regulates blood sugar levels. Insulin lowers blood sugar by facilitating the uptake of glucose into cells, while glucagon raises blood sugar levels by promoting the release of glucose from the liver.

Somatostatin is another hormone produced in the pancreas, which plays a regulatory role in inhibiting the secretion of both insulin and glucagon as well as various other hormones. However, it does not contribute to the digestive enzyme function of the pancreas.

Thus, amylase is the correct choice as it directly relates to the exocrine secretory function of the pancreas.