| cholecystokinin | <chemical> A 33-amino acid peptide secreted by the upper intestinal mucosa and also found in the central nervous system. It causes gallbladder contraction, release of pancreatic exocrine (or digestive) enzymes, and affects other gastrointestinal functions. Cholecystokinin may be the mediator of satiety. Chemical name: Cholecystokinin (12 Dec 1998) |
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| receptors, cholecystokinin | Cell surface proteins that bind cholecystokinin (cck) with high affinity and trigger intracellular changes influencing the behaviour of cells. Cholecystokinin receptors are activated by gastrin as well as by cck-4, cck-8, and cck-33. Activation of these receptors evokes secretion of amylase by pancreatic acinar cells, acid and pepsin by stomach mucosal cells, and contraction of the pylorus and gall bladder. The role of the widespread cck receptors in the central nervous system is not well understood. (12 Dec 1998) |
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