Goblet cells are responsible for secreting what protective substance in the stomach?

Goblet cells are specialized epithelial cells found in various mucosal surfaces, including the stomach, where they play a crucial role in protecting the gastrointestinal tract. Their primary function is to secrete mucus, a thick and viscous fluid that serves several important purposes in maintaining the health of the stomach lining.

Mucus acts as a protective barrier, preventing mechanical damage from food particles and protecting the stomach epithelial cells from acidic gastric secretions. It also plays a role in lubricating the passage of food through the digestive system. The secretion of mucus is vital for neutralizing stomach acid and creating a suitable environment for the digestive enzymes to function without causing harm to the stomach lining.

While bile, saliva, and insulin serve significant roles in digestion and metabolism, they are not produced by goblet cells. Bile is produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder, saliva is secreted by salivary glands, and insulin is produced by the pancreas, highlighting the specific and essential role of goblet cells in secreting mucus within the gastrointestinal tract.