Lecture Notes on Stomach Functions & Control

This set of flashcards covers key vocabulary and concepts related to the functions and control mechanisms of the stomach as outlined in the lecture notes.

Gastrointestinal Barrier

A protective barrier in the GIT that consists of physical, chemical, immunological, and microbiological components.

Enteric Nervous System

Known as the 'brain of the gut', it controls motility and secretions independently of the central nervous system.

Emesis

The forceful expulsion of GIT contents via the mouth, often referred to as vomiting.

Pepsinogen

An inactive enzyme produced by chief cells that is activated to pepsin in an acidic environment.

Hydrochloric Acid (HCl)

A strong acid produced by parietal cells that helps in the digestion of food by denaturing proteins and activating digestive enzymes.

Intrinsic Factor

A glycoprotein co-secreted with HCl that binds to Vitamin B12 and facilitates its absorption in the ileum.

Motility Patterns

Rhythmic contractions in the GI tract that help mix and propel food along the digestive tract.

Accommodation Reflex

A response that allows the stomach to expand and accommodate large quantities of food without increasing pressure.

Migrating Motility Complex (MMC)

A cyclic pattern of motility during fasting that helps clear residual food from the stomach and intestines.

Chemical Digestion

The process of breaking down food into smaller molecules through enzymatic reactions, primarily occurring in the stomach and small intestine.

Regurgitation

The passive expulsion of undigested food from the esophagus, typically without the abdominal contractions associated with vomiting.

Cytokines

Small proteins released by immune cells that can affect local paracrine signaling, particularly during inflammatory responses in the GIT.

Gastric Ulcer Syndrome (EGUS)

A condition in horses characterized by ulcers in the stomach lining, often caused by stress and dietary factors.

Peristaltic Contractions

Coordinated smooth muscle contractions that move ingesta through the GI tract.

Bicarbonate

A chemical produced in the stomach to neutralize stomach acid, providing a protective effect on the stomach lining.

Digestive Enzymes

Biological catalysts produced in the GI tract that break down food particles into absorbable molecules.