Advanced Dental Admission Test (ADAT) 2026 – The Complete All-in-One Study Guide for Exam Success!

K cells, also known as enteroendocrine cells, play a significant role in the regulation of gastric acid secretion within the digestive system. Specifically, these cells are located in the mucosal lining of the small intestine and are responsible for producing the hormone gastric inhibitory peptide (GIP). GIP functions primarily to inhibit the secretion of gastric acid and slow down gastric motility. This regulatory mechanism is crucial for maintaining appropriate levels of acidity in the stomach as food enters from the small intestine, contributing to optimal digestion and nutrient absorption.

The other options do not accurately reflect the specialized functions of K cells: while pancreatic secretions are regulated by several hormones, K cells primarily focus on gastric acid regulation rather than directly influencing pancreatic functions; fat absorption is mainly regulated by other types of cells and mechanisms, including bile salts and lipase, rather than K cells; and gastric acid production is primarily the role of parietal cells found in the stomach rather than in the small intestine.