The proper gastric glands are also known as fundus or oxyntic glands.
The stomach contains different types of gastric glands depending on the region. The question refers to the "proper gastric glands," which is synonymous with the glands located in the fundus and body of the stomach. Therefore, the other names used to describe these glands are fundic glands or oxyntic glands. These glands are crucial for gastric juice production. They contain various cells including:
- Parietal cells: Produce hydrochloric acid (HCl) and intrinsic factor.
- Chief cells: Secrete pepsinogen, which is converted to pepsin to aid in protein digestion.
- Mucous neck cells: Produce mucus.
- Enteroendocrine cells: Secrete hormones like gastrin.
These cells work together to create an acidic environment that is essential for digestion and to protect the body from pathogens.