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exocrine pancreas

exocrine component of pancreas

The part of the pancreas that is part of the exocrine system and which produces and store zymogens of digestive enzymes, such as chymotrypsinogen and trypsinogen in the acinar cells [GO].

On this page
Typ Gland
Körpersystem Digestive
Übergeordnete Struktur serous gland
Lateinischer Name exocrine component of pancreas
FMA ID 16017

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the exocrine pancreas produce?

The exocrine pancreas produces digestive enzymes in inactive precursor forms called zymogens, including trypsinogen, chymotrypsinogen, proelastase, and prolipase, along with amylase and DNase. These are secreted into the duodenum via the pancreatic duct and activated by intestinal enzymes.

What are acinar cells and what is their role?

Acinar cells are the secretory units of the exocrine pancreas, arranged in grape-like clusters (acini). They synthesize and store zymogen granules containing digestive enzyme precursors and release them in response to hormonal signals (cholecystokinin) and vagal stimulation after a meal.

How is the exocrine pancreatic secretion delivered to the intestine?

Acinar cells secrete enzymes into small intercalated ducts that merge progressively into larger interlobular ducts and ultimately the main pancreatic duct (of Wirsung), which joins the bile duct at the hepatopancreatic ampulla (of Vater) before emptying into the duodenum.

References

  1. Foundational Model of Anatomy — FMA:16017 Reference anatomy ontology (University of Washington)
  2. UBERON — UBERON:0000017 Cross-species anatomy ontology (EMBL-EBI Ontology Lookup Service)

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Educational Disclaimer

This content is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical decisions.

Data sources: Terminologia Anatomica, Foundational Model of Anatomy, Wikidata.