Audio Glossary

Antiflatulent   an agent that reduces gas bubbles, thereby decreasing bloating and discomfort

Chief cells   cells located in the mucosa of the stomach that secrete pepsinogen, an inactive form of the enzyme pepsin that chemically breaks down proteins

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)   the regurgitation of stomach contents into the esophagus

H1, K1-ATPase   enzyme responsible for pumping acid onto the mucosal surface of the stomach

H2-receptor antagonist   drug that inhibits the effects of histamine at its receptors in the GI tract

Helicobacter pylori   bacterium associated with a large percentage of peptic ulcer disease

Intrinsic factor   chemical substance secreted by the parietal cells in the stomach that is essential for the absorption of vitamin B12

Mucosa layer   inner lining of the alimentary canal that provides a surface area for the various acids, bases, and enzymes to break down food

Parietal cells   cells in the stomach mucosa that secrete hydrochloric acid

Peptic ulcer   erosion of the mucosa in the alimentary canal, most commonly in the stomach and duodenum

Peristalsis   involuntary wavelike contraction of smooth muscle lining the alimentary canal

Proton pump inhibitors   drugs that inhibit the enzyme H1, K1-ATPase

Zollinger-Ellison syndrome   disorder of having excess acid secretion in the stomach resulting in peptic ulcer disease