Which gastric cells secrete HCl and intrinsic factor?

• A. Parietal cells
• B. Chief cells
• C. G cells
• D. Mucous cells

Answer: (A)

Parietal cells, located in the fundic and body regions of the stomach, are responsible for secreting both hydrochloric acid and intrinsic factor. The acid creates a highly acidic environment that denatures proteins, activates pepsinogen to pepsin, and helps kill ingested microbes. Intrinsic factor is essential for vitamin B12 absorption in the ileum; without it, B12 deficiency can develop. The acid is produced by H+/K+-ATPase pumps on the parietal cell membranes, and their activity is stimulated by gastrin, histamine, and acetylcholine. Other gastric cell types include chief cells, which secrete pepsinogen; G cells, which release gastrin; and mucous cells, which produce protective mucus.