Age-related changes in the ductular system and stellate cells of human pancreas

Introduction: Age associated progressive fibrosis may be a major causative factor that leads to pathogenesis of many diseases. Activated pancreatic stellate cells (alpha-SMA positive) play a major role in fibrogenesis that affects the cytoarchitecture and functioning of pancreas. This study dealt with age-related fibrotic changes in the ductular system of the tail and body of pancreas and the morphology of pancreatic stellate cells. Methods: Pancreata (n = 36) from cadavers aged 30-80 years were obtained after due clearances and processed for Masson's trichome staining. Fibrosis was quantified using Adobe Photoshop (CS2) and Image-J software. Hierarchical cluster analysis was done on the luminal area and total ductal area that were measured by the nucleator probe of StereoInvestigator software (MBF, Vermont, USA). Pancreatic stellate cells (alpha-SMA positive cells) were identified by immunohistochemistry and quantified stereologically around periacinar, periductular, perivascular, and peri-Islet areas. Results: An increased fibrosis was noted in body and tail regions of the pancreas with increasing age. Three duct populations were identified in clustering. Their area and corresponding lumen showed a significant increase with progressive decades (p < 0.001). alpha-SMA positive cells increased significantly from 4th to 7th decades (p = 0.002, 0.004 and 0.002, respectively). Discussion: Pancreatic stellate cells may be important contributors to increased fibrosis in pancreas. The classification of pancreatic ducts into three clusters may serve to be a useful tool. (C) 2015 Published by Elsevier, a division of Reed Elsevier India, Pvt. Ltd on behalf of Anatomical Society of India.