Gastrointestinal Secretions and Function

These flashcards cover key concepts related to gastrointestinal secretions, their functions, and associated hormones.

Intestinal gastrin

A hormone that briefly stimulates gastric secretion and motility.

Cholecystokinin (CCK)

A hormone that stimulates the gallbladder to contract and release bile, while also relaxing the sphincter of Oddi.

Secretin

A hormone produced in response to the acidity of chyme that stimulates the pancreas to secrete sodium bicarbonate.

Peristalsis

The wave-like muscle contractions that move food through the digestive tract.

Aflatoxin

A fungal toxin found in certain spoiled foods that is known to be a powerful liver carcinogen.

Zymogen

An inactive enzyme precursor that requires a biochemical change to become an active enzyme.

Sinusoidal capillaries

Specialized blood vessels in the liver that facilitate the exchange of substances between blood and liver cells.

Bile

A digestive fluid produced by the liver that helps emulsify fats.

Ghrelin

A hormone that stimulates appetite and is produced in the stomach.

Leptin

A hormone produced by fat cells that helps to regulate energy balance and suppress hunger.

Amylase

An enzyme that breaks down starches into sugars.