Gastric juice

Gastric gland is a type of exocrine gland found in the stomach. These glands are responsible for the production of gastric juice, a mixture of hydrochloric acid, enzymes, and mucus that aids in the digestion of food.

Structure

The gastric glands are located in the mucosa layer of the stomach, which is the innermost layer. Each gland is composed of several types of cells, each with a specific function. These include parietal cells, which produce hydrochloric acid; chief cells, which produce the enzyme pepsinogen; and mucous neck cells, which produce mucus.

Function

The primary function of the gastric glands is to produce gastric juice. This juice is secreted into the stomach where it aids in the digestion of food. The hydrochloric acid in the juice provides an acidic environment which is essential for the activation of pepsinogen to pepsin, the enzyme responsible for the breakdown of proteins. The mucus produced by the glands helps to protect the stomach lining from the corrosive effects of the acid.

Clinical significance

Abnormalities in the function or structure of the gastric glands can lead to a variety of gastrointestinal disorders. For example, gastritis, an inflammation of the stomach lining, can occur if the glands produce too much acid. On the other hand, achlorhydria, a condition characterized by a lack of stomach acid, can occur if the glands do not produce enough acid. Both conditions can lead to symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.

See also

• Digestive system
• Gastroenterology
• Histology