GASTRIC PARIETAL CELLS Meaning and
Definition
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Gastric parietal cells are specialized cells found in the lining of the stomach's gastric glands. These cells play a crucial role in the production of gastric acid, which is responsible for the digestion of food in the stomach.
The gastric parietal cells are also known as oxyntic cells or acid-secreting cells due to their primary function of secreting hydrochloric acid (HCl) into the stomach. This acid helps in the breakdown of food proteins, activates digestive enzymes, and creates an acidic environment to kill harmful bacteria ingested with food.
These cells are predominantly located in the gastric glands of the stomach's fundus and body regions, and they have distinctive microscopic features. They possess large, spherical central nuclei surrounded by abundant cytoplasm containing numerous secretory vesicles. These vesicles contain the enzymes required for acid secretion.
The secretion of gastric acid by parietal cells is controlled by various factors, including the hormone gastrin, which is released by the stomach in response to the presence of food. Gastrin stimulates the parietal cells to release acid, enhancing the digestive process. Other factors that regulate acid secretion include histamine and acetylcholine.
Disorders such as gastric ulcers and hyperchlorhydria can arise if there is an overproduction of gastric acid by the parietal cells. Conversely, decreased production of acid can lead to conditions like hypochlorhydria or achlorhydria, resulting in impaired digestion.
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