The pancreas is a mixed gland, meaning it has both endocrine and exocrine functions. Its endocrine function involves the islets of Langerhans, which secrete hormones like insulin and glucagon directly into the bloodstream to regulate blood sugar. Its exocrine function involves the acinar cells, which produce digestive enzymes (like amylase, lipase, proteases) that are secreted into the small intestine via the pancreatic duct.