The Pancreas
Exocrine Functions
Endocrine glands secrete substances into a duct
Exocrine cells in the pancreas synthesise and release digestive enzymes
These cells are in small groups called acini (singular acinus)
Acini are grouped to form lobules separated by connective tissue
Acini cells secrete enzymes into a tubule at the centre of the acinus which connect to
form intralobular ducts which eventually combine to form the pancreatic duct
Endocrine Functions
Endocrine glands secrete substances into the blood
Islets cells of Langerhans contain endocrine cells and are found surrounded by acini in
the lobules
Alpha cells (α-cells) secrete glucagon
Beta cells (β-cells) secrete insulin
Exocrine Functions
Endocrine glands secrete substances into a duct
Exocrine cells in the pancreas synthesise and release digestive enzymes
These cells are in small groups called acini (singular acinus)
Acini are grouped to form lobules separated by connective tissue
Acini cells secrete enzymes into a tubule at the centre of the acinus which connect to
form intralobular ducts which eventually combine to form the pancreatic duct
Endocrine Functions
Endocrine glands secrete substances into the blood
Islets cells of Langerhans contain endocrine cells and are found surrounded by acini in
the lobules
Alpha cells (α-cells) secrete glucagon
Beta cells (β-cells) secrete insulin
