Intralobular duct

Intralobular ducts are a component of the exocrine gland system, specifically within the mammary glands, salivary glands, and pancreas. They are responsible for the transportation of secretions from the acinar cells to the interlobular ducts.

Structure

Intralobular ducts are small ducts located within the lobules of the gland. They are lined by a single layer of cuboidal epithelium or columnar epithelium, depending on the gland in which they are found. These ducts connect the acinar cells, which produce the gland's secretions, to the larger interlobular ducts.

Function

The primary function of intralobular ducts is to transport the secretions produced by the acinar cells to the interlobular ducts. From there, the secretions are transported to the main duct of the gland and eventually expelled from the body. In the pancreas, these secretions include digestive enzymes, while in the mammary glands, they include milk.

Clinical significance

Abnormalities or damage to the intralobular ducts can lead to a variety of medical conditions. For example, in the mammary glands, blockage of these ducts can lead to mastitis, a painful infection of the breast tissue. In the pancreas, damage to the intralobular ducts can contribute to the development of pancreatitis.

See also

• Exocrine gland
• Acinar cell
• Interlobular duct