Which organ is the primary source of intrinsic factor?

Prepare for the ASPEN Certified Nutrition Support Clinician (CNSC) Exam. Study with structured quizzes and detailed insights to enhance your knowledge and readiness. Get set for success!

Multiple Choice

Which organ is the primary source of intrinsic factor?

Explanation:
Intrinsic factor is produced by gastric parietal cells in the lining of the stomach, mainly in the fundic region. These cells secrete intrinsic factor into the stomach lumen, where it binds vitamin B12 released from dietary proteins by acid and pepsin. The B12-intrinsic factor complex then travels to the terminal ileum for absorption. Other options don’t fit because chief cells secrete pepsinogen, ECL cells release histamine to stimulate acid, and enterocytes are intestinal absorptive cells that do not produce intrinsic factor.

Intrinsic factor is produced by gastric parietal cells in the lining of the stomach, mainly in the fundic region. These cells secrete intrinsic factor into the stomach lumen, where it binds vitamin B12 released from dietary proteins by acid and pepsin. The B12-intrinsic factor complex then travels to the terminal ileum for absorption. Other options don’t fit because chief cells secrete pepsinogen, ECL cells release histamine to stimulate acid, and enterocytes are intestinal absorptive cells that do not produce intrinsic factor.

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