Pepsinogen
from class: Pharmacology for Nurses Definition Pepsinogen is an inactive enzyme precursor secreted by the chief cells in the stomach. It is converted into the active enzyme pepsin in the acidic environment of the stomach, aiding in protein digestion.
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Predict what's on your test 5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test Pepsinogen is secreted by the chief cells located in the gastric glands of the stomach. The conversion of pepsinogen to pepsin requires a low pH, typically provided by hydrochloric acid (HCl) in the stomach. Pepsin plays a crucial role in breaking down proteins into smaller peptides. Pepsinogen secretion can be stimulated by various factors including gastrin, vagal stimulation, and histamine. Pepsinogen levels can be measured clinically to assess certain gastrointestinal disorders. Review Questions What type of cells secrete pepsinogen? How is pepsinogen activated into its active form? Why is pepsin important for digestion? "Pepsinogen" also found in:
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