Question

The acid that secrets in our stomach are...

Answer 1

Hint: This acid has a very low pH. It is required for the activation of a protease.

Complete answer: The stomach secretes hydrochloric acid (HCl).
1. It has a pH range of 1.8 to 2.5
2. This acid is secreted by the oxyntic cells in the fundus and the pylorus of the stomach.
3. These cells are present in the mucosal epithelium of the stomach wall.
4. Hydrochloric acid is required for the activation of the protease pepsinogen.
5. Proteases are enzymes that act on the protein (peptide bonds) to form peptones and peptides.
6. Pepsinogen is a zymogen (inactive form), it is converted to pepsin (active form).
7. Pepsin helps in the conversion of the pancreatic enzymes to its active form.

So, the correct answer is “Option A”.

Additional Information: The stomach produces pepsinogen from the chief cell.
1. It produces mucus from several goblet cells in the stomach wall.
2. The mucus helps in protecting the stomach wall from its acidic contents.
3. The hydrochloric acid is also essential for the absorption of vitamin B12.
4. It facilitates the production of the intrinsic factor. The intrinsic factor helps in the absorption and assimilation of vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 is required for the healthy production and sustenance of red blood cells (RBCs) and nerves. Deficiency of this vitamin results in pernicious and megaloblastic anemia.
5. This acidic secretion is harmful when the chyme reaches the duodenum (intestine lacks the protective mucus layer). Hence, in increased secretion of HCl and in cases of pyloric insufficiency, the wall of the intestine is affected. This is known as a peptic ulcer of the duodenum.

Note: Peptic ulcers can be caused by the bacteria Helicobacter pylori.
Treatment of peptic ulcers includes the administration of H2 blockers and antacids.
The acidic content of the chyme isn’t suitable for the action of pancreatic enzymes.
Hence, bile is secreted by the liver to neutralize the acidic pH.