The Gastric Parietal Cells

Question

The gastric parietal cells
A) maintain the gastric pH in the alkaline range.
B) secrete acid and all emulsifying agents.
C) secrete HCl and intrinsic factor.
D) secrete HCl and vitamin B12.

Accepted Answer

The gastric parietal cells secrete two main substances – hydrochloric acid (HCl) and intrinsic factor. HCl is important for breaking down food and killing any potential pathogens in the stomach. Intrinsic factor is required for the absorption of vitamin B12 in the small intestine. Therefore, option C is the correct answer as it mentions both HCl and intrinsic factor produced by parietal cells.