What major action does cholecystokinin perform in the pancreas?

Cholecystokinin (CKK) plays a crucial role in digestion, particularly in how it influences the pancreas. Its primary action is to stimulate the release of digestive enzymes from the pancreas into the small intestine. These enzymes are essential for the digestion of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, allowing for proper nutrient absorption.

When food enters the small intestine, particularly fatty and protein-rich foods, CCK is released in response to these stimuli. The presence of CCK in the bloodstream signals the pancreas to release enzymes such as amylase (for carbohydrates), lipase (for fats), and proteases (for proteins). This process is vital for effective digestion and nutrient assimilation.

This action of CCK can also be understood in the broader context of its functions, which include promoting not only digestive enzyme release but also stimulating the contraction of the gallbladder to release bile, aiding in fat digestion, and affecting gastric motility to regulate how quickly the stomach empties its contents into the small intestine. However, considering the main focus of the question specifically about the pancreas, the correct answer highlights the enzyme-release function of CCK.