Hepatocyte-like cells in the pancreatic islets, study

Abstract

Objective: To determine the existence of hepatocyte-like cells in the human foetal pancreas. Study design: Foetal pancreas was examined in parallel with two experimental models involving pancreatic tissue regeneration. Foetal pancreases (n=20; 10 to 18 weeks) were obtained from spontaneous abortions and were histologically examined using haematoxylin-eosin and PAS staining. Tissues from food-deprived and copperdeficient female Wistar rats were studied following Dpenicillamine administration, and tissue from female hamsters was evaluated following administration of a -- pancreatic carcinogen. Histological examination in animal studies included haematoxylin-eosin staining. and diaminobenzidine histochemistry. Results: The presence of a characteristic cell-type whose morphology was distinct from islets cells and exocrine pancreas cells was observed in human foetal pancreatic islets. These c ~ l l sw ere morphologically similar to hepatocyte-like cells and were compatible to those observed in the experimental models. Topographical relationships suggest that these originate from stem cells which are related to the pancreas duct cells. Conclusion: We conclude that hepatocyte-like cells or precursors exist in the human foetal pancreas.