Gastrin
experimentalAlso known as: GAST, P01350
**Mechanism of Action** Gastrin, encoded by the *GAST* gene (UniProt P01350), is a peptide hormone primarily secreted by G cells in the gastric antrum and duodenum. Its principal mechanism involves binding to cholecystokinin B (CCK2) receptors on enterochromaffin-like (ECL) cells and parietal cells in the stomach, triggering histamine release and direct stimulation of hydrochloric acid secretion. Additionally, gastrin promotes pancreatic enzyme secretion via CCK2 receptors on acinar cells and exerts trophic effects on gastric mucosa, including proliferation of ECL cells and parietal cells. **Key Research Findings** Experimental studies (16999 PubMed references) have elucidated gastrin's role in gastric acid regulation and mucosal growth. Elevated gastrin levels are associated with hypergastrinemic states such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome and chronic atrophic gastritis, where sustained hypergastrinemia can lead to ECL cell hyperplasia and carcinoid tumors. Research also indicates gastrin's involvement in gastrointestinal motility, mucosal defense, and potential pro-inflammatory signaling via NF-κB pathways. Preclinical models have explored gastrin receptor antagonists (e.g., netazepide) for conditions like gastric neuroendocrine tumors and acid-related disorders. **Clinical Relevance** Gastrin measurement is clinically used to diagnose gastrinomas and assess gastric acid hypersecretion. Experimental therapeutic strategies targeting gastrin signaling—including CCK2 receptor antagonists and gastrin vaccines—are under investigation for gastric cancer and neuroendocrine tumors. However, gastrin's trophic effects on ECL cells necessitate caution in long-term acid suppression therapy (e.g., proton pump inhibitors), which can induce hypergastrinemia. For research purposes only — not medical advice.
Key data
MQRLCVYVLIFALALAAFSEASWKPRSQQPDAPLGTGANRDLELPWLEQQGPASHHRRQLGPQGPPHLVADPSKKQGPWLEEEEEAYGWMDFGRRSAEDENC97H126N20O32SMechanism of action
Gastrin stimulates the stomach mucosa to produce and secrete hydrochloric acid and the pancreas to secrete its digestive enzymes. It also stimulates smooth muscle contraction and increases blood circulation and water secretion in the stomach and intestine
Research & studies
Gastrin acts as a growth factor for the proximal stomach via the CCK2R receptor.; Long-term PPI use frequently elevates serum gastrin in patients with upper GI diseases.; Gastrin likely does not promote and may suppress distal antral gastric cancer.; Uncertainty exists regarding gastrin's role in gastric cardia cancer and esophageal adenocarcinoma.
Frequently asked questions
What is Gastrin?
**Mechanism of Action** Gastrin, encoded by the *GAST* gene (UniProt P01350), is a peptide hormone primarily secreted by G cells in the gastric antrum and duodenum. Its principal mechanism involves binding to cholecystokinin B (CCK2) receptors on enterochromaffin-like (ECL) cells and parietal cells in the stomach, trig
How does Gastrin work?
Gastrin stimulates the stomach mucosa to produce and secrete hydrochloric acid and the pancreas to secrete its digestive enzymes. It also stimulates smooth muscle contraction and increases blood circulation and water secretion in the stomach and intestine
What is the research status of Gastrin?
Gastrin is currently classified as experimental, with 16,999 research references on record. This is for research purposes only and is not medical advice.
What is the molecular weight of Gastrin?
Gastrin has a molecular weight of approximately 2116.2 g/mol (formula C97H126N20O32S).
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