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].

Type Gland
Body System Digestive
Parent Structure serous gland
Latin 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.

Related Structures

1st arch mandibular endoderm endoderm of mandibular component 1st arch maxillary endoderm endoderm of maxillary component alimentary part of gastrointestinal system alimentary system anterior ectodermal midgut anterior intestinal portal fovea cardiaca anus anal opening associated mesenchyme of foregut-midgut junction baleen feeding system

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Educational Disclaimer

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