Which hormone is specifically produced by the pancreas?

The pancreas has a crucial role in the regulation of glucose metabolism, and it specifically produces insulin, which is a key hormone in this process. Insulin is secreted by the beta cells of the pancreatic islets (islets of Langerhans) in response to rising blood glucose levels. It facilitates the uptake of glucose into the cells for energy production and helps in storing excess glucose in the liver as glycogen.

This makes insulin essential for maintaining normal blood glucose levels and preventing conditions such as diabetes mellitus, which arises from insufficient insulin production or action. In contrast, cortisol is produced by the adrenal glands and regulates metabolism and stress response; thyroxine is produced by the thyroid gland and is involved in regulating metabolism; and adrenaline (also known as epinephrine) is also produced by the adrenal glands and is important in the fight-or-flight response. Each of these hormones plays distinct roles that do not involve the pancreas.