Pancreatic Amylase Secretion: Pathway to the Duodenum

Pancreatic amylase is NOT transported by the thoracic duct. The thoracic duct carries lymph, not digestive enzymes.

Correct Pathway

1. Synthesized in pancreatic acinar cells.
2. Secreted into pancreatic ductules → main pancreatic duct.
3. Joins the common bile duct to form the ampulla of Vater (hepatopancreatic ampulla).
4. Opens into the duodenum at the major duodenal papilla.
5. Released with other pancreatic enzymes (lipase, proteases) and bicarbonate.

Function in Duodenum

Amylase hydrolyzes starch into maltose, maltotriose, and α-limit dextrins. Brush-border enzymes (maltase, sucrase-isomaltase) complete digestion to glucose for absorption.