Digestion Tract: Accessory Organs

Pancreas function is restricted to two separate structural components:

Centroacinar cells are continuous with short intercalated ducts situated outside the acini. They secrete fluid rich in Na+ and bicarbonate, which neutralizes chyme and creates an optimal pH for the enzymes. The intercalated ducts merge to form interlobular collecting ducts, which are less prominent in the pancreas than in the parotid salivary gland.