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Gastrointestinal Peptides beginner

Secretin: Endogenous Peptide Hormone Reference

27-amino acid gut hormone that stimulates pancreatic bicarbonate secretion and regulates gastric acid output. This peptide or oligopeptide is studied for its...

By Encyclopeptide Editorial | 2 min read
hormone pancreatic bicarbonate gut-hormone

Chemical Identity

PropertyValue
Chemical FormulaC130H220N44O40
Molecular Weight3055 Da
CAS Number1393-25-5
Peptide ClassGut Hormone (27 amino acids)
SequenceHSDGTFTSELSRLREGARLQRLLQGLV-NH2

Structure

Secretin is a 27-amino acid linear peptide hormone and the first hormone to be discovered (1902). It belongs to the secretin-glucagon-VIP family, sharing structural homology with these peptides. The C-terminal amide is essential for receptor binding.

Mechanism of Action

Secretin binds secretin receptors on pancreatic ductal cells, activating adenylyl cyclase and increasing cAMP. This stimulates copious bicarbonate-rich fluid secretion that neutralizes gastric acid entering the duodenum. Secretin also stimulates bile flow and inhibits gastric acid secretion.

Clinical Applications

  • Pancreatic function testing: Secretin stimulation test for exocrine insufficiency
  • Gastrinoma diagnosis: Secretin provocative test
  • Autism: Investigational (IV secretin for GI symptoms)
  • Gastric acid regulation: Endogenous acid neutralization

Pharmacology

  • Half-life: 3-5 minutes
  • Release: S-cells (duodenum) in response to acid (pH <4.5)
  • Target: Pancreatic ductal cells
  • Analogs: Not widely used clinically

References

  • Bayliss, W.M., & Starling, E.H. (1902). The mechanism of pancreatic secretion. Journal of Physiology, 28, 325-353.
  • Chey, W.Y., & Chang, T.M. (2003). Secretin: a century of discovery. Pancreas, 26, 327-332.

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