Submucosal glands

Submucosal glands (also known as Brunner's glands) are exocrine glands found in the submucosa layer of the human digestive system. They are most abundant in the duodenum, the first part of the small intestine, but can also be found in other parts of the digestive tract.

Etymology

The term "submucosal glands" is derived from their location in the submucosa layer of the digestive tract. The term "Brunner's glands" is named after the Swiss anatomist Johann Conrad Brunner, who first described these glands in the 17th century.

Structure

Submucosal glands are tubuloalveolar glands, meaning they have both tubular and alveolar structures. They are composed of a duct, a neck, and a secretory acinus. The duct is lined by columnar epithelium, the neck is lined by mucus-secreting cells, and the acinus is lined by serous cells.

Function

The primary function of the submucosal glands is to produce a mucus-rich alkaline secretion. This secretion helps to protect the duodenum from the acidic content of chyme (partially digested food), provide an alkaline condition for the intestinal enzymes to be active, and to lubricate the intestinal walls.

Clinical significance

Abnormalities or diseases of the submucosal glands can lead to a variety of digestive disorders. For example, hyperplasia of the submucosal glands is seen in peptic ulcer disease, while atrophy of these glands can lead to malabsorption syndromes.

See also

• Gastrointestinal tract
• Exocrine gland
• Mucus

Submucosal glands Resources
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