Figure 1.

Understanding exocrine–endocrine cross talk. The NIDDK-sponsored workshop, Integrated Physiology of the Exocrine and Endocrine Compartments in Pancreatic Diseases, showcased talks in six areas of research related to how the exocrine and endocrine compartments interact in the healthy and diseased pancreas. Panel discussions between experts in these fields and conference participants resulted in the identification of gaps in knowledge and opportunities for future research. As a pancreas research community, we must more thoughtfully integrate our current knowledge of the normal physiology and the disease mechanisms that underlie endocrine and exocrine disorders so that there is a better understanding of the interplay between these compartments.