What is the primary effect of Secretin on the digestive system?

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Last updated: May 12, 2025 • View editorial policy

From the Research

The correct answer is (b) stimulates pancreatic enzyme secretion. Secretin is a hormone produced by S cells in the duodenum and jejunum of the small intestine in response to acidic chyme entering from the stomach. Its primary function is to regulate pancreatic secretions, particularly stimulating the pancreas to release bicarbonate-rich pancreatic juice that helps neutralize stomach acid in the duodenum. While secretin does stimulate pancreatic enzyme secretion, its most potent effect is on bicarbonate secretion, as noted in the study by 1. Contrary to the other options, secretin actually inhibits gastrin secretion (not stimulates it), has minimal effects on intestinal motility, and inhibits gastric acid secretion (rather than stimulating it), as discussed in the study by 2. Secretin works in concert with cholecystokinin (CCK), which is the primary stimulator of enzyme secretion from the pancreas, to ensure proper digestion in the small intestine, as explained in the study by 3. Some studies, such as 4 and 5, provide additional information on the regulation of pancreatic enzyme secretion, but the most relevant and recent information is provided by 1 and 3. Key points to consider include:

  • Secretin stimulates pancreatic enzyme secretion
  • Secretin inhibits gastrin secretion
  • Secretin has minimal effects on intestinal motility
  • Secretin inhibits gastric acid secretion
  • Cholecystokinin (CCK) is the primary stimulator of enzyme secretion from the pancreas.

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