The cells of the epithelial lining in the vertebrate stomach are not d...
The mucosa of the stomach has gastric glands. Gastric glands have three major types of cells namely mucous neck cells, which secrete mucus that protects the stomach wall from the acidic condition. Peptic or chief cells, which secrete the proenzyme pepsinogen which gets activated in the presence of acidic conditions and convert into the pepsin for protein digestion. Parietal or oxyntic cells, which secrete HCl and intrinsic factor (factor essential for absorption of vitamin B12). The mucus and bicarbonates present in the gastric juice play an important role in lubrication and protection of the mucosal epithelium from excoriation by the highly concentrated hydrochloric acid.
The cells of the epithelial lining in the vertebrate stomach are not d...
Explanation:
The cells of the epithelial lining in the vertebrate stomach are not damaged by HCl due to the secretion of mucus that covers the epithelium.
Role of Mucus:
Mucus is a slimy substance secreted by the goblet cells present in the gastric glands of the stomach. It forms a protective layer on the inner surface of the stomach, preventing the acidic gastric juice from coming into direct contact with the stomach lining.
Physical Barrier:
The mucus layer acts as a physical barrier between the hydrochloric acid (HCl) present in the gastric juice and the epithelial cells lining the stomach. It prevents the HCl from directly reaching the cells and causing damage.
Visually Appealing Content:
To make the content visually appealing, we can use bullet points to summarize the key information:
- The cells of the epithelial lining in the vertebrate stomach are protected from damage caused by HCl.
- This protection is provided by the secretion of mucus by the goblet cells present in the gastric glands.
- Mucus forms a slimy layer that covers the inner surface of the stomach, acting as a physical barrier.
- The mucus layer prevents the HCl present in the gastric juice from coming into direct contact with the stomach lining.
- Without the mucus layer, the HCl would directly damage the epithelial cells, leading to gastric ulcers and other stomach-related issues.
- The mucus layer also helps in lubricating the food and aids in the smooth movement of food along the digestive tract.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the secretion of mucus in the stomach plays a crucial role in protecting the cells of the epithelial lining from damage caused by HCl. It forms a physical barrier, preventing direct contact between HCl and the stomach lining. This protective mechanism helps in maintaining the integrity and function of the stomach.
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