BrunnerDrüsen

Brunner glands are exocrine glands located in the submucosa of the duodenum, the first section of the small intestine. They are also known as duodenal glands or pyloric glands of the duodenum. These glands are branched tubular glands that secrete an alkaline mucus into the duodenal lumen. The primary function of the Brunner gland secretion is to neutralize the acidic chyme entering the duodenum from the stomach, creating an optimal pH environment for the action of intestinal enzymes and protecting the duodenal lining from acid damage. The mucus also contains bicarbonate ions, which contribute to this buffering effect. In addition to mucus, Brunner glands may also secrete some enzymes, though their role in digestion is considered less significant than that of pancreatic enzymes. The activity of Brunner glands is regulated by various factors, including the vagus nerve and hormones like secretin, which stimulates bicarbonate secretion. While generally beneficial, excessive proliferation or altered function of Brunner glands can lead to conditions such as Brunner gland hyperplasia or adenomas, which may cause symptoms like obstruction or bleeding. Their presence is a distinguishing feature of the duodenum, differentiating it from other parts of the small intestine.