What are the roles of the different cells in the stomach?
The stomach contains several specialized cells, each with a unique function:
- Parietal cells: Secrete hydrochloric acid (HCl) and intrinsic factor, essential for vitamin B12 absorption. - Chief cells: Produce pepsinogen, an inactive enzyme that is converted to pepsin for protein digestion. - Mucous cells: Secrete mucus to protect the stomach lining from acid and digestive enzymes. - Enteroendocrine cells: Release hormones like gastrin, which regulate stomach motility and secretion.
