Gastrin

Gastrin is a hormone that regulates the production of gastric acid in the stomach. It is produced by G cells in the stomach lining and is released into the bloodstream when food enters the stomach. Gastrin then stimulates the parietal cells in the stomach lining to produce gastric acid, which aids in the digestion of food.

Function

Gastrin has several important functions in the body. Its primary function is to stimulate the production of gastric acid by the parietal cells in the stomach lining. This is essential for the digestion of food and the absorption of nutrients. Gastrin also stimulates the growth of the stomach lining and increases the contractions of the stomach and intestines, which helps to move food through the digestive tract.

Regulation

The production and release of gastrin is regulated by several factors. When food enters the stomach, it triggers the release of gastrin from the G cells in the stomach lining. The presence of protein in the stomach is a particularly strong stimulus for gastrin release. The level of acidity in the stomach also influences gastrin production. When the acidity level is high, gastrin production is inhibited. When the acidity level is low, gastrin production is stimulated.

Clinical significance

Abnormal levels of gastrin can lead to several medical conditions. High levels of gastrin can cause Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, a rare disorder that leads to the formation of tumors in the pancreas and duodenum and causes ulcers in the stomach and duodenum. Low levels of gastrin can lead to hypochlorhydria, a condition characterized by low stomach acid production.

See also

• Gastric acid
• G cell
• Parietal cell
• Zollinger-Ellison syndrome
• Hypochlorhydria

References

Gastrin Resources
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