Gastric Juice

Gastric Juice
Details
System	Digestive system
Identifiers
Latin	Succus gastricus
TA98
TH	{{#property:P1694}}
TE	{{#property:P1693}}
FMA	{{#property:P1402}}
Anatomical terminology

Gastric juice is a colorless, acidic digestive fluid produced in the stomach. It is composed primarily of hydrochloric acid (HCl), water, electrolytes, and various enzymes including pepsin, which plays a critical role in the digestion of proteins. The production and secretion of gastric juice are essential processes in digestion and overall gastrointestinal health.

Composition

Gastric juice is primarily made up of:

• Hydrochloric acid (HCl): This strong acid provides the high acidity (low pH) environment necessary for the activation and function of pepsin. It also helps kill ingested bacteria and other pathogens, reducing the risk of infections.
• Pepsin: An enzyme that breaks down proteins into smaller peptides. Pepsin is secreted as an inactive zymogen called pepsinogen, which is activated by the acidic environment of the stomach.
• Mucus: Secreted by the gastric glands in the stomach lining, mucus helps protect the stomach wall from the corrosive effects of hydrochloric acid and provides lubrication for the processing of food.
• Intrinsic factor: A glycoprotein necessary for the absorption of vitamin B12 in the small intestine.
• Water and electrolytes: Essential for the overall chemical reactions and for transporting the components of gastric juice.

Function

The primary function of gastric juice is to facilitate the digestion of foods by:

• Breaking down proteins into peptides through enzymatic action.
• Providing an acidic environment that denatures proteins and activates various digestive enzymes.
• Killing potential harmful bacteria and pathogens ingested with food.

Regulation

The secretion of gastric juice is regulated by both neural and hormonal factors:

• Neural regulation: The sight, smell, or thought of food can trigger the vagus nerve to stimulate the secretion of gastric juice even before food enters the stomach.
• Hormonal regulation: Hormones such as gastrin, which is released by the stomach in response to the presence of food, play a significant role in the regulation of gastric juice production.

Clinical significance

Disorders related to gastric juice, such as hyperacidity, gastritis, and peptic ulcers, can significantly affect the gastrointestinal health. Treatments may involve the use of medications that reduce acid levels or protect the lining of the stomach.

See also

• Stomach
• Digestive system
• Human gastrointestinal tract
• Acid secretion