Microscopically divided in to exocrine and endocrine cells:
Exocrine Cells
- Vast majority of pancreatic tissue (99%)
- Acinar and ductal cells secrete alkaline digestive secretions containing enzymes
- Drain via pancreatic ductules and ducts which unite with the common bile duct opening in to the duodenum
Endocrine Cells
- Occupy on 1% of the pancreatic tissue
- Locates in collections called the "islets of Langerhans":
- Approximately 1 million scattered throughout acinar cells
- Possess different cell types which produce, store and secrete different hormones:
- α-cells (25%) - glucagon
- β-cells (60%) - insulin
- δ-cells (10%) - somatostatin
- PP cells - pancreatic polypeptide
- E-cells - ghrelin
