Exocrine pancreas cell
Exocrine Pancreas Cell
The Exocrine Pancreas Cell (pronunciation: eks-oh-krin pan-kree-as sel) is a type of cell found in the pancreas, a glandular organ in the digestive system and endocrine system of vertebrates.
Etymology
The term "Exocrine" is derived from the Greek words "exo" meaning "outside" and "krinein" meaning "to separate". This refers to the function of these cells which secrete enzymes to the outside or into a cavity, rather than into the bloodstream like endocrine cells. "Pancreas" is also derived from Greek, meaning "all flesh", possibly due to its fleshy appearance.
Function
Exocrine pancreas cells are responsible for producing and secreting digestive enzymes that are passed into the small intestine to aid in the digestion of food. These enzymes include amylase, which breaks down carbohydrates, lipase, which breaks down fats, and protease, which breaks down proteins.
Related Terms
- Acinar cell: The exocrine cells of the pancreas are organized into acini, small grape-like clusters. Each acinus is filled with acinar cells, which are the exocrine cells that produce digestive enzymes.
- Pancreatic duct: The pancreatic duct is the conduit through which the digestive enzymes produced by the exocrine pancreas cells are transported to the small intestine.
- Zymogen granules: These are specialized vesicles in exocrine pancreas cells that store the inactive forms of digestive enzymes.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Exocrine pancreas cell
- Wikipedia's article - Exocrine pancreas cell
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