Which of the following produces both hormones and enzymes?

Analyze the question: We need an organ that makes both hormones (chemical messengers released into the blood) and enzymes (digestive proteins that speed up reactions).

Explain the concept:

• Enzymes are made by exocrine glands, which release secretions through ducts.
• Hormones are made by endocrine glands, which release secretions directly into the blood.
• An organ that does both is called a mixed gland, which means it has both exocrine and endocrine tissue.

Check each option:

• A. Ileum: This part of the small intestine does produce some digestive enzymes and a few gut hormones. However, the classic JAMB answer for "both hormones and enzymes" is not the ileum, because its role is mainly absorption of digested food. It is not considered a typical mixed gland.
• B. Pancreas: The exocrine part secretes pancreatic juice containing the enzymes amylase, lipase and trypsin. The endocrine part (islets of Langerhans) secretes the hormones insulin and glucagon. This is the textbook mixed gland.
• C. Gall bladder: It only stores and releases bile, which has no enzymes. It makes no hormones.
• D. Kidney: It produces hormones such as erythropoietin and renin, but it does not make digestive enzymes.

Answer: The pancreas is the correct choice, which is option B.

Exam tip: Remember the pancreas as the "mixed gland" and link it to its products:

• Enzymes: amylase, lipase, trypsin
• Hormones: insulin, glucagon

If a JAMB question mentions "both exocrine and endocrine functions", think pancreas straight away.