Within the gastric glands, which cells would you expect to find closest to the gastric pits?

• A. Chief cells.
• B. Enteroendocrine cells.
• C. Parietal cells.
• D. Mucous neck cells.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the structure of the gastric glands: Gastric glands are located in the lining of the stomach and open into the gastric pits. They contain different types of cells, each with specific functions.
2. Identify the types of cells in the gastric glands: The main cell types include mucous neck cells, parietal cells, chief cells, and enteroendocrine cells.
3. Determine the location of each cell type: Mucous neck cells are typically found closest to the gastric pits, where they secrete mucus to protect the stomach lining. Parietal cells, which secrete hydrochloric acid, and chief cells, which secrete pepsinogen, are located deeper in the glands. Enteroendocrine cells, which release hormones, are also found deeper within the glands.
4. Consider the function of mucous neck cells: These cells produce mucus that helps protect the stomach lining from the acidic environment, making their location near the gastric pits crucial for immediate protection.
5. Conclude that mucous neck cells are the ones found closest to the gastric pits due to their protective role and strategic location in the gastric glands.