Histology, Parietal Cells

Unique to the human body due to its acid-secreting ability, the parietal cell has always been a subject of interest for scientific research. Harbored in the gastric glands of the fundus and body, parietal cells are considered to be dynamic, as they undergo morphological transition during the resting and secretory states. Parietal cells play a pivotal role in gastric homeostasis, as well as in the absorption of vitamin B12 (cobalamin) due to the release of intrinsic factor (IF). Paracrine, endocrine, and neural pathways are involved in the rigorous control of acid secretion by parietal cells. Therefore, they play an important role in gastric pathologies and are considered to be crucial in the pathophysiology of acid reflux disease, different causes of gastritis, pernicious anemia, Helicobacter pylori infection, among others. It is imperative to understand their physiology, structure, and clinical relevance to grasp the importance of the said cells in the gastric environment.