Enterochromaffin-like cell

Enterochromaffin-like cells (ECL cells) are a type of neuroendocrine cell found in the stomach. They are located in the gastric glands, primarily in the acid-secreting regions of the stomach. ECL cells are known for their role in gastric acid secretion and are involved in various gastric diseases.

Function

ECL cells are responsible for the secretion of histamine, a key mediator in gastric acid secretion. They are stimulated by gastrin, a hormone produced by G cells in the stomach. The histamine released by ECL cells then acts on parietal cells, stimulating them to secrete hydrochloric acid.

Role in Disease

ECL cells have been implicated in a number of gastric diseases. Overactivity of these cells can lead to hypergastrinemia, a condition characterized by excessive secretion of gastrin. This can result in Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, a rare disorder that leads to severe peptic ulcers.

ECL cell hyperplasia, or an increase in the number of ECL cells, is often seen in patients with chronic atrophic gastritis. This condition can lead to the development of gastric carcinoids, a type of neuroendocrine tumor.

See Also

• Gastric glands
• Gastrin
• Histamine
• Zollinger-Ellison syndrome
• Atrophic gastritis
• Gastric carcinoids

References

• 
  Control of stomach acid secretion
• 
  Histamine molecule structure