Parietal cells

Looks like

Microscopic cells in the glands of the stomach's upper parts, packed with acid pumps.

What it does

Secrete hydrochloric acid and intrinsic factor, which the gut needs to absorb vitamin B12.

Keeping it well

Proton-pump inhibitor medicines switch their pumps off; autoimmune attack on them causes pernicious anaemia, a treatable B12 deficiency.

Related conditions

• Acid reflux (GERD)
• B12 & folate deficiency
• Barrett's oesophagus
• Crohn's disease
• Eating disorders
• Food poisoning
• Functional dyspepsia (indigestion)
• Gastritis
• Gastroenteritis
• Gastrointestinal bleeding
• Gastroparesis
• Hyperemesis gravidarum
• Motion sickness
• Peptic ulcer disease
• Stomach cancer