Pancreatic acini are the tiny berry-shaped clusters of cells that make up about 98% of the pancreas. They produce digestive enzymes, which drain through small ducts that join to form the main pancreatic duct.
| Location | Throughout the pancreas, surrounding the scattered pancreatic islets |
|---|---|
| Parts |
|
| Nerve Supply | Vagus nerve (stimulates secretion); Coeliac plexus |
| Blood Supply | Pancreaticoduodenal arteries; Splenic artery branches |
| Venous drainage |
|
| Lymphatic drainage |
|
Make about 1.5 litres a day of enzyme-rich juice that digests proteins, fats and carbohydrates; duct cells add bicarbonate.
If enzymes activate inside the gland, the pancreas digests itself (acute pancreatitis). Loss of acini in chronic pancreatitis or cystic fibrosis causes fatty stools and weight loss, treated with enzyme capsules. Most pancreatic cancers arise from the duct system linked to the acini.
Premature enzyme activation causing pancreatic inflammation, severe pain and raised serum lipase.
Loss of enzyme production leading to malabsorption and fatty stools.
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