the exocrine portion of the pancreas is composed of
Pancreas The pancreas is a secretory structure with an internal hormonal role (endocrine) and an external digestive role (exocrine). The endocrine part is composed of hormonal tissue distributed along the pancreas in discrete units called islets of Langerhans.[2] Islets of Langerhans have a well-established structure and form density routes through the exocrine tissue.[2] The exocrine part has two main ducts, the main pancreatic duct and the accessory pancreatic duct. These drain enzymes through the ampulla of Vater into the duodenum.[8]
Pancreatic islets It has been recognized that the cytoarchitecture of pancreatic islets differs between species.[8][9][10] In particular, while rodent islets are characterized by a predominant proportion of insulin-producing beta cells in the core of the cluster and by scarce alpha, delta and PP cells in the periphery, human islets display alpha and beta cells in close relationship with each other throughout the cluster.[8][10]
Small intestine Absorption of the majority of nutrients takes place in the jejunum, with the following notable exceptions:
Small intestine Food from the stomach is allowed into the duodenum through the pylorus by a muscle called the pyloric sphincter.