Which hormone stimulates the secretion of gastric acid?

The hormone that stimulates the secretion of gastric acid is gastrin. Gastrin is produced by G-cells in the stomach lining in response to food intake. When food enters the stomach, gastrin is released into the bloodstream and stimulates the parietal cells of the gastric mucosa to secrete hydrochloric acid (HCl). This process is essential for digestion, as gastric acid helps break down food and provides an acidic environment that is optimal for the action of digestive enzymes. In addition to promoting acid secretion, gastrin also stimulates gastric motility and helps maintain the overall digestive process.

In contrast, insulin primarily regulates glucose metabolism and affects various aspects of metabolism but has no direct role in gastric acid secretion. Cortisol, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, is involved in stress responses and metabolic regulation but does not stimulate gastric acid production. Serotonin, although it plays a role in regulating gastrointestinal motility and other functions, does not directly stimulate the secretion of gastric acid in the same manner that gastrin does.