Which stomach cell is responsible for the secretion of pepsinogen?

The chief cells are specialized cells located in the gastric glands of the stomach and are primarily responsible for the secretion of pepsinogen. Pepsinogen is an inactive enzyme that, when activated in the acidic environment of the stomach, converts into pepsin, which plays a crucial role in the digestion of proteins. This conversion occurs when pepsinogen is exposed to hydrochloric acid secreted by parietal cells, which creates the necessary acidic conditions.

Understanding the specific roles of each type of stomach cell helps clarify the function of chief cells: they produce pepsinogen, which is essential for initiating protein digestion. In addition, the coordination between parietal cells, which secrete acid, and chief cells ensures that pepsinogen can be effectively activated when food enters the stomach, highlighting the complex interplay of stomach secretions necessary for digestion.