Brunner's glands

Anatomical structures in the duodenum

Micrograph of Brunner's glands in the duodenum

Brunner's glands are specialized anatomical structures located in the submucosa of the duodenum, which is the first section of the small intestine. These glands are named after the Swiss anatomist Johann Conrad Brunner, who first described them in the late 17th century.

Structure

Brunner's glands are compound tubular submucosal glands found predominantly in the duodenum, although they may extend into the proximal jejunum. They are situated in the submucosa layer, beneath the mucosa and above the muscularis externa. The glands are composed of clusters of secretory cells that produce an alkaline, mucus-rich fluid.

Function

The primary function of Brunner's glands is to secrete an alkaline fluid containing bicarbonate. This secretion serves several purposes:

• Neutralization of gastric acid: The alkaline secretion helps to neutralize the acidic chyme that enters the duodenum from the stomach, protecting the intestinal lining from damage.
• Providing an optimal pH for enzyme activity: The neutralization of acid creates a more favorable environment for the activity of digestive enzymes such as pancreatic enzymes and intestinal enzymes.
• Lubrication: The mucus component of the secretion aids in lubricating the intestinal contents, facilitating their movement through the digestive tract.

Clinical significance

Brunner's glands can be involved in various pathological conditions:

• Brunner's gland hyperplasia: This is a benign condition characterized by an increase in the number and size of Brunner's glands. It is often asymptomatic but can sometimes cause duodenal obstruction or bleeding.
• Brunner's gland adenoma: A rare benign tumor that arises from Brunner's glands. It may present with symptoms such as gastrointestinal bleeding or obstruction.
• Peptic ulcer disease: Although not directly caused by Brunner's glands, the protective alkaline secretion from these glands plays a role in preventing ulcer formation by neutralizing gastric acid.

Related pages

• Duodenum
• Small intestine
• Digestive system
• Gastric acid
• Pancreatic enzymes

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  Brunner's glands

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  Duodenum with Brunner's glands