Histology
Under a microscope, stained sections of the pancreas reveal two different types of parenchymal tissue. Lightly staining clusters of cells are called islets of Langerhans, which produce hormones that underlie the endocrine functions of the pancreas. Darker-staining cells form acini connected to ducts. Acinar cells belong to the exocrine pancreas and secrete digestive enzymes into the gut via a system of ducts.
| Structure | Appearance | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Islets of Langerhans | Lightly staining, large, spherical clusters | Hormone production and secretion (endocrine pancreas) |
| Pancreatic acini | Darker-staining, small, berry-like clusters | Digestive enzyme production and secretion (exocrine pancreas) |
Read more about this topic: Pancreas