Enteroendocrine cell

Enteroendocrine cells are a group of cells found in the wall of the gastrointestinal tract and pancreas. They are part of the endocrine system and are responsible for producing and releasing hormones directly into the bloodstream. These hormones help regulate a variety of bodily functions, including digestion, appetite, and blood sugar levels.

Function

Enteroendocrine cells produce a variety of hormones that play a crucial role in the body's digestive system. These hormones include cholecystokinin, which stimulates the digestion of fat and protein; gastrin, which stimulates the secretion of gastric acid; and glucagon-like peptide-1, which stimulates insulin secretion and inhibits glucagon secretion.

Types

There are several types of enteroendocrine cells, each producing different hormones. These include:

• G cells: These cells produce gastrin and are found in the stomach and duodenum.
• I cells: These cells produce cholecystokinin and are found in the duodenum and jejunum.
• L cells: These cells produce glucagon-like peptide-1 and are found in the ileum and colon.

Clinical significance

Abnormalities in enteroendocrine cells can lead to a variety of medical conditions. For example, an overproduction of gastrin can lead to Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, a condition characterized by ulcers in the stomach and duodenum. On the other hand, a deficiency in glucagon-like peptide-1 can contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes.

Research

Research into enteroendocrine cells is ongoing, with scientists seeking to better understand their role in the body and how they can be targeted for the treatment of various diseases. For example, some research is focused on developing drugs that can stimulate the production of glucagon-like peptide-1 in order to treat type 2 diabetes.

See also

• Endocrine system
• Gastrointestinal tract
• Hormone
• Pancreas

This endocrine system related article is a stub.