ABSTRACT
Part of the Progression of Pancreatic Disease ............... 615 28.12.3 Pancreatic Cancer ............................................................. 615
28.12.3.1 Support for Islet-to-Duct-to-Cancer Paradigm ......................................................... 615
28.13 Epilogue............................................................................................ 616 References .................................................................................................. 618
The adult human pancreas consists of three principal cell types — the exocrine, endocrine, and ductal cells (Figure 28.1). These cells encompass one organ with two distinct functions: the exocrine pancreas secretes digestive enzymes, and the endocrine pancreas produces the hormones responsible for glucose homeostasis. Briefly, the acinar cells secrete digestive enzymes into the ductal network, which produces bicarbonate and other components of pancreatic juice. The pancreatic juice is released, in a controlled manner, into the duodenum via the ampulla of Vater. The endocrine cells are typically grouped into organized clusters known as the islets of Langerhans, although individual cells or small clusters are also observed.
