Figure 1. Schematic of the cellular components of the exocrine pancreas.

The pancreas can be functionally divided into 2 components that are interspersed: an exocrine component that consists primarily of acini — clusters of acinar cells that feed into ductules — and an endocrine component composed of the islets. In the normal pancreas, quiescent PaSCs are present in the periacinar space. These cells have long cytoplasmic processes that encircle the base of the acinus. Zymogen granules release their contents of digestive enzymes into the pancreatic ductal system upon stimulation.