When partially digested food enters the small intestine from the stomach, several events must occur to protect the intestine and allow for the continued digestion of the food. One hormone in particular performs two of these functions. What intestinal hormone is responsible for causing the pancreas to release digestive enzymes and the gall bladder to release bile salts into the intestine?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Cholecystokinin (CCK) is the intestinal hormone responsible for causing the pancreas to release digestive enzymes and the gall bladder to release bile salts into the intestine. Secretin also plays a role in regulating digestion, but its main function is to stimulate the release of bicarbonate from the pancreas to neutralize stomach acid. Epinephrine and corticosterone are hormones that are not directly involved in regulating digestion. Insulin is a hormone involved in glucose regulation, but not digestion.

When Partially Digested Food Enters the Small Intestine from the Stomach