why are there no myoepithelial cells in the pancreas?

Answer 1

Myoepithelial cells may contain alpha smooth muscle actin and can contract and expel the secretions of EXOCRINE GLANDS.The pancreas as we know is both an EXOCRINE and ENDOCRINE requiring more complex control of secretory functions.

Presence of myoepithelial cells in pancreas could probably result to glandular secretions in a non- refined fashion.With that, pancreas require a more refined structures and mechanisms for a smooth control of BOTH of its secretory functions, which could not be achieved by presence of myoepithelial cells.

Instead of myoepithelial cells, pancreas has STELLATE CELLS which by far have close similarities to myoepithelial cells with regards to their properties and some functions which includes their contractile properties.

In addition, pancreatic secretions are more achieved by enzymatic stimulation. Whereas, other glandular organs with myoepithelial cells achieve their secretory functions by effects of contraction.

(I cannot recall the exact explanation of my ANA/PHYSIO teacher back in the past, but based on my "SCANTY" knowledge on physiology, I explained it on its possible mechanism.)

Answer 2

Myoepithelial Cells