REGENERATION OF PANCREATIC TISSUE FROM THE TRANSPLANTED PANCREATIC DUCT IN THE DOG

Abstract

Autotransplants beneath serosa of intestine of the pancreatic duct were carried out in 3 totally depancreatized and 4 partially depancreatized dogs, these animals being carried over a period of 23-162 days. One totally depancreatized animal carried 162 days had regenerated pancreatic gland tissue (acini and islet cells) at the site of the transplant. Another totally and 3 partially depancreatized animals showed evidences of regeneration of glandular tissue from the transplants, which were filled with a clear fluid. One animal at autopsy, 58 days after operation, had a piece of regenerated tissue on the ligated stump of the duct that had been left in situ. Microscopical examination revealed acinar, islet, and connective tissue cells. All transplants carried over 58 days showed signs of regeneration of glandular tissue, while none carried for a shorter period showed any evidences of regeneration. The time factor is extremely important while the diabetic factor seems to play no role. The presence of fluid in the transplanted ducts of 4 of the animals suggests that there had been a regeneration of acinar cells, but that they had degenerated some time prior to autopsy because the secretion could find no exit.