Lenticular glands of the stomach, also known as gastric pits, are microscopic invaginations or depressions found on the inner lining of the stomach. These glands are responsible for the secretion of various substances that aid in the digestion of food.
The lenticular glands are typically located in the mucosal layer of the stomach, which is the innermost layer that comes into direct contact with ingested food. They are formed by a specialized type of epithelial cells known as mucous cells, chief cells, parietal cells, and endocrine cells.
Mucous cells are responsible for producing and secreting mucus, which helps to protect the stomach lining from the corrosive effects of gastric acid and aids in the smooth movement of food. Chief cells, on the other hand, secrete pepsinogen, an inactive form of the enzyme pepsin that plays a crucial role in the breakdown of proteins.
Parietal cells are responsible for producing and secreting hydrochloric acid, an acidic solution that aids in breaking down food particles, activating pepsinogen into pepsin, and killing bacteria that may have entered the stomach. Lastly, endocrine cells secrete hormones such as gastrin, which plays a role in regulating gastric acid secretion and gastric motility.
Overall, the lenticular glands of the stomach are essential for the production and secretion of various substances that contribute to the digestive process.
