Enterogastrone

Enterogastrone is a hormone secreted by the upper small intestine. It is released in response to the presence of fatty acids and other lipids in the upper small intestine during digestion. Its primary function is to decrease the rate of gastric emptying and secretion of gastric acid.

Function

Enterogastrone is one of several hormones that help to regulate the digestive process. It is released when fatty acids and other lipids enter the upper small intestine, and it acts to slow down the rate at which the stomach empties its contents into the small intestine. This allows for more efficient digestion and absorption of nutrients.

In addition to slowing gastric emptying, enterogastrone also reduces the secretion of gastric acid by the stomach. This helps to prevent the over-acidification of the stomach contents, which can lead to gastric ulcers and other digestive problems.

Role in Disease

Abnormal levels of enterogastrone can contribute to a variety of digestive disorders. For example, excessively high levels of enterogastrone can slow gastric emptying to the point where it becomes a medical condition known as gastroparesis. This condition can cause a variety of symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, and feelings of fullness after eating only a small amount of food.

Conversely, low levels of enterogastrone can lead to rapid gastric emptying, or dumping syndrome. This condition can cause symptoms such as abdominal cramps, diarrhea, and dizziness.

Treatment

Treatment for conditions related to abnormal enterogastrone levels typically involves managing the symptoms and, if possible, addressing the underlying cause. For example, dietary changes can often help to manage the symptoms of both gastroparesis and dumping syndrome. Medications may also be used to either slow or speed up gastric emptying, depending on the specific condition.

See Also

• Gastrointestinal hormone
• Gastric acid
• Gastroparesis
• Dumping syndrome