Pancreatic Acinar Cells

This H&E section of the exocrine pancreas shows several of its characteristic features. The exocrine cells show a strongly basophilic cytoplasm that represents the area occupied by the rough endoplasmic reticulum. The apical side of the cells is filled with zymogen granules that contain a variety of digestive enzymes. Intercalate ducts are also visible. The cells which line the ducts secrete bicarbonate in response to secretin that is produced in the duodenum. Bicarobonate raises the pH of the contents in the duodenum. Also visible are centroacinar cells that form the terminal lining of the intercalated ducts.