How is HCl secreted in the stomach?
HCl is produced by the parietal cells of the stomach. To begin with, water (H2O) and carbon dioxide (CO2) combine within the parietal cell cytoplasm to produce carbonic acid (H2CO3), which is catalysed by carbonic anhydrase.
Why HCI is secreted in the stomach?
Hydrogen Ion Hydrochloric acid secretion by the gastric parietal cell is necessary for pepsinogen activation (pH<5) and for the reduction of bacterial colonization. The main stimulants of gastric acid secretion are histamine, gastrin, and acetylcholine.
What is the role of HCl in the stomach?
Complete answer: The main function of HCL is to provide the necessary H+ for the Activation of pepsinogen into pepsin. Approximately 2 liters of HCL is secreted daily into our stomach. It also serves the purpose of protection by killing some bacteria by the high acidic environment.
Why HCl does not destroy the lining of stomach?
Second, HCl in the lumen doesnt digest the mucosa because goblet cells in the mucosa secrete large quantities of protective mucus that line the mucosal surface. Basic electrolytes, such as HCO3-, trapped inside the layer of mucus neutralize any HCl that penetrates the mucus.
What would happen if HCl were not secreted in the stomach?
If HCl were not secreted in the stomach then it would affect protein digestion. The HCl secreted by glands present on stomach walls provides acidic medium to food. The acidic medium allows pepsinogen to be converted into pepsin.
Why do the walls of stomach secret HCl?
As soon as food enters your stomach, your stomach lining releases enzymes that start breaking down proteins in the food. Your stomach lining also secretes hydrochloric acid, which creates the ideal conditions for the protein-digesting enzymes to work.
What are cells of the stomach secrete HCl?
Parietal cells are the exocrine cells of the stomach that secrete hydrochloric acid (HCl). HCl makes the inside of the stomach very acidic, which helps to digest proteins by causing them to unfold. Parietal cells secrete HCl at a concentration of 160 mM, which is a pH of 0.8.
What is the function of the HCl in the stomach?
Although Hcl and pepsin are essential for proper digestion, their excess can be harmful for your health. The role of Hcl in the stomach is to digest foods as it is strong enough to do break down nutrients from foods.
