Vetinerary Assistant Practice Exam

Which two enzymes does the pancreas produce?

1. Amylase and lipase

2. Insulin and glucagon

3. Pepsin and hydrochloric acid

4. Cortisol and adrenaline

The correct answer is: Insulin and glucagon

The pancreas is a vital organ that performs both endocrine and exocrine functions. Among its key roles, the pancreas produces enzymes that aid in digestion. Amylase and lipase are two of these digestive enzymes. Amylase is responsible for breaking down carbohydrates into sugars, while lipase breaks down fats into fatty acids and glycerol. The correct enzymes produced by the pancreas are indeed amylase and lipase, which are crucial for the digestion of carbohydrates and fats, respectively. Insulin and glucagon, while produced by the pancreas, are hormones that regulate blood sugar levels and do not function as digestive enzymes. Pepsin and hydrochloric acid are not produced by the pancreas; instead, they are secreted by the stomach to aid in protein digestion. Similarly, cortisol and adrenaline are produced by the adrenal glands and are involved in the body's response to stress, not related to pancreatic enzyme production. Therefore, the answer identifying amylase and lipase accurately reflects the enzymes produced specifically for the digestive process in the pancreas.