Pancreatic polypeptide

Pancreatic polypeptide is an polypeptide secreted by PP cells in the endocrine pancreas predominantly in the head of the pancreas. It consists of 36 amino acids and has molecular weight about 4200 Da.

Pancreatic polypeptide is a cholecystokinin antagonist. It suppresses the pancreatic secretion and stimulates gastric secretion.

Its secretions in humans is increased after a protein meal, fasting, exercise, and acute hypoglycemia and is decreased by somatostatin and intravenous glucose. The function of PP is unknown, but effects on hepatic glycogen levels and gastrointestinal secretions have been suggested.