Hormones Secreted by the Stomach

The specialized enteroendocrine cells of the gastric glands secrete most of the digestive hormones.

These cells, such as the G, D, and enterochromaffin-like cells, are typically scattered among the mucus-secreting cells at the base of the gastric glands. Each cell type secretes different digestive hormones.

G cells secrete gastrin, which promotes stomach muscle contraction for gastric motility. Gastrin also regulates gastric acid release.

The enterochromaffin-like cells produce histamine, which stimulates gastric acid release from the parietal cells. In addition, scattered enterochromaffin cells in the mucosa secrete serotonin to regulate gastrointestinal motility, aiding smooth food movement through the digestive tract.

In contrast, somatostatin released by D cells inhibits gastrin secretion, slowing digestion and regulating the secretion of other digestive hormones.

Besides secreting mucus and enzymes, the gastric glands in the fundic region possess P/D1 cells, which produce ghrelin to regulate hunger and satiety.

Ghrelin levels spike before meals to initiate hunger and decrease shortly after meals, curbing appetite.