We are doing some more histology. I hope those of you that do not understand the more technical details enjoy the pictures I've taken.
Today's Medical Topic: Histology of The Pancreas
The Tissue Sample: Alrighty. Let's take a look.
Just so we are clear here, the pancreas is that tadpole-shaped organ just posterior to your stomach. The pancreas is a mixed gland composed of endocrine and exocrine glands. Acinar cells make up most of the glands with Panceatic Islets or Islets of Langerhans sprinkled throughout.
So here is the what we are looking at:
So this is a cross section of part of the pancreas. What you seeing is mostly acinar cells. That little red line is pointing to an Islet of Langerhans. We need to zoom in to really appreciate it.
That blurry little blob there in the middle is an Islet of Langerhans. These islets contain two major populations of cells:
alpha cells: These synthesize glucagon
beta cells: These are much more numerous and synthesize insulin.
I am not able to identify which is which and it is my understanding that alpha and beta cells are very difficult to discern between. Also it might not be possible with the dye used to stain this sample.
Insulin is needed for your cells to utilize glucose. Which in turn is needed for ATP production. And we all know that adenosine triphosphate is your body's energy currency.
I know this was super exciting. Keep on keepin on and I'll keep on posting.
Just so we are clear here, the pancreas is that tadpole-shaped organ just posterior to your stomach. The pancreas is a mixed gland composed of endocrine and exocrine glands. Acinar cells make up most of the glands with Panceatic Islets or Islets of Langerhans sprinkled throughout.
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| 100x Magnification (click for big) |
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| (click for big) |
alpha cells: These synthesize glucagon
beta cells: These are much more numerous and synthesize insulin.
I am not able to identify which is which and it is my understanding that alpha and beta cells are very difficult to discern between. Also it might not be possible with the dye used to stain this sample.
Insulin is needed for your cells to utilize glucose. Which in turn is needed for ATP production. And we all know that adenosine triphosphate is your body's energy currency.
I know this was super exciting. Keep on keepin on and I'll keep on posting.
Send questions or comments to dudaday@gmail.com
Disclaimer: I am not a health care provider, any information presented in this blog should not be considered advice it is mearly an outlet to slake my curiosity. You should always consult your primary medical provider for any concerns or illness. Unlike Tylenol, I am not approved by the FDA or American Medical Association to treat or provide relief for any ailment.
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