What are the two embryonic structures that form the pancreas?

The pancreas develops from two endodermal outgrowths called the dorsal pancreatic bud and the ventral pancreatic bud. The dorsal bud forms most of the pancreas (head, neck, body, tail), while the ventral bud contributes to the lower head and uncinate process.

How do the pancreatic ducts develop?

Each bud initially has its own duct. An anastomosis forms between them, creating the main pancreatic duct (of Wirsung) from parts of both ducts. The accessory pancreatic duct (of Santorini) may persist from the dorsal duct remnant.

What is annular pancreas and how does it occur?

Annular pancreas is a congenital anomaly where a bifid ventral pancreatic bud encircles the duodenum, potentially causing obstruction. It presents with symptoms like bilious vomiting and requires surgical intervention such as duodenojejunostomy.

What tissues give rise to the pancreatic parenchyma and connective tissue?

The parenchyma (acini and islets) is derived from endodermal pancreatic buds. In contrast, the capsule and connective tissue develop from the surrounding mesoderm.

When does insulin secretion begin during pancreatic development?

Insulin secretion starts by the 10th week of intrauterine life. Interestingly, somatostatin-secreting δ cells develop before the insulin-producing β cells.

What is divided pancreas?

Divided pancreas occurs when the dorsal and ventral pancreatic buds fail to fuse during development, resulting in two separate pancreatic parts instead of a single unified organ.

What is accessory pancreatic tissue and where can it be found?

Accessory pancreatic tissue refers to heterotopic pancreatic tissue that can be found in locations such as the duodenum, Meckel’s diverticulum, stomach, gallbladder, or esophagus.

Pancreas Development – Dorsal & Ventral Buds

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