Acinus

Definition

An acinus is a small, sac-like cluster of cells in the pancreas that secretes digestive enzymes. It plays a crucial role in breaking down food substances into smaller molecules for absorption.

Related terms

Pancreatic Juice: A fluid secreted by the pancreas that contains digestive enzymes and bicarbonate ions which neutralize stomach acid in the small intestine.

Enzymes: Biological molecules that significantly speed up the rate of virtually all of the chemical reactions that take place within cells.

Bile: A digestive fluid produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder, which helps break down fats into fatty acids, aiding in digestion and absorption