Acinar cell
Acinar Cell
Acinar cells (/əˈsaɪnər/; from Latin acinus meaning "grape"), are exocrine cells that are primarily found in the pancreas and salivary glands. They are responsible for the production and secretion of digestive enzymes and other essential substances.
Etymology
The term "acinar" is derived from the Latin word acinus, which means "grape". This is in reference to the grape-like clusters that these cells form in the pancreas and salivary glands.
Function
Acinar cells are specialized exocrine cells that secrete digestive enzymes into the gastrointestinal tract. In the pancreas, these enzymes aid in the digestion of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. In the salivary glands, acinar cells produce saliva, which aids in the initial stages of digestion and helps to lubricate the oral cavity.
Related Terms
- Exocrine gland: A gland that secretes substances onto an epithelial surface by way of a duct.
- Endocrine gland: A gland that secretes hormones directly into the bloodstream.
- Pancreatic juice: A liquid secreted by the pancreas, which contains a variety of digestive enzymes, including trypsin, chymotrypsin, and amylase.
- Saliva: A watery substance located in the mouths of animals, secreted by the salivary glands.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Acinar cell
- Wikipedia's article - Acinar cell
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