Intercalated duct

Intercalated duct is a component of the exocrine gland system, specifically found in the salivary glands and pancreas. These ducts play a crucial role in the modification and transport of secretions from the glandular cells to the larger excretory ducts.

Structure

The intercalated ducts are the smallest ducts in the glandular system. They are lined by a single layer of low cuboidal epithelium. These ducts connect the secretory endpieces, or acini, to the larger striated ducts.

Function

The primary function of the intercalated ducts is to transport the secretions from the acini to the striated ducts. In the salivary glands, they also modify the secretions by reabsorbing sodium and chloride ions and secreting bicarbonate ions and water, which helps to protect the oral cavity from potential damage by acidic materials.

In the pancreas, the intercalated ducts are part of the pancreatic duct system that transports pancreatic juice containing digestive enzymes to the duodenum.

Clinical significance

Abnormalities or diseases of the intercalated ducts can lead to various health issues. For instance, blockage of these ducts in the pancreas can contribute to pancreatitis, an inflammation of the pancreas. In the salivary glands, blockage or damage to the intercalated ducts can result in sialadenitis, or inflammation of the salivary glands.

See also

• Exocrine gland
• Salivary gland
• Pancreas
• Acinus
• Striated duct
• Pancreatic duct
• Pancreatitis
• Sialadenitis