What hormone stimulates bicarbonate release?

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Last updated: April 15, 2025 • View editorial policy

From the Guidelines

Secretin is the hormone that stimulates bicarbonate release. This hormone plays a crucial role in maintaining the optimal pH environment in the duodenum by stimulating the pancreas to secrete a bicarbonate-rich fluid, which helps neutralize stomach acid. Although the provided evidence [ 1 ] discusses the use of linaclotide, a guanylate cyclase-C agonist, in the management of chronic idiopathic constipation, it does not directly address the hormone responsible for stimulating bicarbonate release. However, it does mention that linaclotide increases cyclic guanosine monophosphate concentrations, resulting in luminal chloride and bicarbonate secretion. Key points to consider include:

  • The importance of bicarbonate secretion in neutralizing stomach acid and creating an optimal pH environment for digestive enzymes
  • The role of secretin in stimulating pancreatic ductal cells to secrete a bicarbonate-rich fluid
  • The coordination of secretin with other digestive hormones, such as cholecystokinin (CCK) and gastrin, to ensure proper digestion and absorption of nutrients.

From the Research

Hormone Regulation of Bicarbonate Release

  • The hormone that stimulates bicarbonate release is secretin 2, 3.
  • Secretin is a gastrointestinal hormone that regulates the secretory activity of pancreatic duct epithelial cells and cholangiocytes, stimulating them to secrete bicarbonate-rich fluid 2, 3.
  • The regulation of bicarbonate secretion by secretin is mediated by its receptor and involves various intracellular mechanisms, including the activation of CFTR, a cAMP-dependent anion channel 2.
  • In addition to secretin, other factors such as cholinergic nerves, luminal factors, and cooperative factors like nerves, alkaline phosphatase, and bile acids may also play a role in regulating bicarbonate secretion 2, 3.

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This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.