The stomach contains gastric glands, which are located within its walls. These glands are responsible for producing gastric juice, a crucial component in digestion.
Types of Gastric Glands:
There are different types of gastric glands, distinguished by their location and the types of secretions they produce. References mention several classifications:
- Oxyntic glands: These are the major type of gastric gland and are primarily responsible for producing digestive enzymes and acid. Wikipedia
- Pyloric glands: These are endocrine glands located in the pyloric region of the stomach. Wikipedia
- Cardiac gastric glands: These are found in the cardiac region of the stomach. Britannica
These glands contain various cells with specialized functions, including:
- Mucous cells: Secrete mucus, protecting the stomach lining from its own acidic environment.
- Parietal cells: Produce hydrochloric acid (HCl) and intrinsic factor, essential for vitamin B12 absorption.
- Chief cells: Secrete pepsinogen, a precursor to the protein-digesting enzyme pepsin.
- Endocrine cells: These produce hormones that regulate digestion. SEER Training
The gastric glands work together to produce approximately two liters of gastric juice daily. Kenhub This juice contains a mix of HCl, enzymes, and mucus, essential for breaking down food in the stomach. The functions of the gastric glands include protein digestion via pepsin and the secretion of mucus for stomach lining protection. Byjus
It is important to note that other glands, such as the salivary glands and the pancreas, contribute to digestion but are located outside the stomach.
