Acinus
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Acinus
Illustrated section of pancreas of dog. X 250. (Alveolus labeled at center top.)
Centroacinar cells

An acinus (adjective: acinar, plural acini) refers to the berry-shaped termination of an exocrine gland, where the secretion is produced.

They are found in many organs, including:

• the stomach^[1]

• the sebaceous gland of the scalp

• the salivary glands of the tongue^[2]

• the liver

• the lacrimal glands

• the mammary glands

• the pancreas ^[3]

Mucous acini usually stain pale, while serous acini usually stain dark.

The term "acinus" is considered synonymous with alveolus by some sources, but not all.

human acinar cells

See also

• Intercalated duct

References

1. ^ Histology at OU 51_07 - pyloric stomach
2. ^ Histology at OU 46_03 - sublingual gland
3. ^ Histology at BU 10405loa

External links

• acinus at eMedicine Dictionary
• a_09/12107053 at Dorland's Medical Dictionary

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