What primarily controls the secretion of somatostatin?

Somatostatin is primarily secreted by D-cells, which are located in the gastrointestinal tract as well as in the pancreas. The role of somatostatin in the body includes inhibiting the secretion of several hormones such as insulin and glucagon from the pancreas, and it also plays a role in decreasing gastrointestinal motility and the secretion of gastric acid.

The D-cells' secretion of somatostatin serves a critical regulatory function, maintaining homeostasis by preventing excessive hormone release. This inhibitory action is essential for balancing the digestive processes and metabolic activities, emphasizing the importance of D-cells in controlling these physiological functions.

In contrast, A-cells (which secrete glucagon), B-cells (which secrete insulin), and G-cells (which secrete gastrin) primarily have roles in stimulating specific functions in the body rather than inhibiting hormone secretion. This delineation highlights the unique and crucial role of D-cells in regulating the overall hormonal environment related to digestion and metabolism.