Which of the following cells secretes hydrochloric acid in the human stomach?

• A. Chief cells
• B. Goblet cells
• C. Enteroendocrine cells
• D. Parietal cells

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the function of hydrochloric acid (HCl) in the stomach: It helps break down food, activates digestive enzymes like pepsin, and provides an acidic environment to kill harmful microorganisms.
2. Review the roles of different stomach cells: Chief cells secrete pepsinogen (inactive form of pepsin), Goblet cells produce mucus to protect the stomach lining, and Enteroendocrine cells release hormones to regulate digestion.
3. Learn about Parietal cells: These specialized cells are located in the gastric glands of the stomach lining and are responsible for secreting hydrochloric acid (HCl).
4. Understand the mechanism of HCl secretion: Parietal cells use proton pumps to actively transport hydrogen ions (H⁺) into the stomach lumen, combining them with chloride ions (Cl⁻) to form HCl.
5. Connect the information: Based on the roles of the cells, Parietal cells are the correct answer because they are the ones that secrete hydrochloric acid in the human stomach.