Gastric chief cell

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The gastric chief cell, also known as a peptic cell or zymogenic cell, is a type of cell found in the stomach. These cells are primarily responsible for the secretion of pepsinogen, gastric lipase, and chymosin (rennin).

Location[edit | edit source]

Gastric chief cells are located in the gastric glands found in the lining of the stomach. They are predominantly found in the deeper regions of the gastric pits.

Function[edit | edit source]

The primary function of gastric chief cells is the secretion of digestive enzymes. These include:

  • Pepsinogen: An inactive precursor of pepsin, which is activated by the acidic environment of the stomach to break down proteins into peptides.
  • Gastric lipase: An enzyme that aids in the digestion of lipids (fats).
  • Chymosin: An enzyme that coagulates milk, which is particularly important in the digestion of milk in infants.

Regulation[edit | edit source]

The secretion of pepsinogen by gastric chief cells is regulated by several factors:

Histology[edit | edit source]

Under the microscope, gastric chief cells can be identified by their basophilic cytoplasm due to the high content of rough endoplasmic reticulum necessary for the synthesis of digestive enzymes. They are typically found adjacent to parietal cells, which secrete hydrochloric acid.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

Dysfunction or damage to gastric chief cells can lead to impaired digestion and various gastrointestinal disorders. For example, a deficiency in pepsinogen secretion can result in protein malabsorption.

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References[edit | edit source]


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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD