Parietal cells
Parietal Cells
Parietal cells, also known as oxyntic cells, are the epithelial cells that secrete hydrochloric acid (HCl) and intrinsic factor. These cells are located in the gastric glands found in the lining of the stomach.
Pronunciation
Parietal cells: /pəˈraɪɪtəl/ cells
Etymology
The term "parietal" is derived from the Latin word "paries", which means "wall". This is in reference to these cells' location along the walls of the gastric glands.
Function
Parietal cells have two very important functions:
- They produce hydrochloric acid, which is necessary for the digestion of food in the stomach.
- They produce intrinsic factor, which is necessary for the absorption of vitamin B12 in the small intestine.
Related Terms
- Gastric glands: The glands in the stomach lining that contain parietal cells.
- Hydrochloric acid: A strong acid produced by the parietal cells in the stomach. It helps break down food during digestion.
- Intrinsic factor: A glycoprotein produced by the parietal cells. It is necessary for the absorption of vitamin B12.
- Vitamin B12: A vitamin that is necessary for the normal functioning of the brain and nervous system. It is absorbed in the small intestine with the help of intrinsic factor.
Pathology
Damage or destruction of parietal cells can lead to a decrease in stomach acid production, a condition known as achlorhydria. This can result in poor digestion and absorption of nutrients, particularly vitamin B12, leading to pernicious anemia.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Parietal cells
- Wikipedia's article - Parietal cells
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