Question

What is the role of mucous?

• A. Protection against bacterial infection.
• B. Protection against HCL.
• C. Protection against hormones.
• D. Protection against indigestion.

Answer 1

The correct option is B

Protection against HCL.

Mucous cells found throughout the stomach lining secrete mucous to protect the stomach from its own digestive secretions. The stomach protects itself from being digested by its own enzymes, or burnt by the corrosive hydrochloric acid, by secreting sticky, neutralizing mucus that clings to the stomach walls. If this layer becomes damaged in any way it can result in painful stomach ulcers.