CCKs

CCKs, or Cholecystokinin, are peptide hormones produced primarily by the cells of the upper small intestine. They play a crucial role in the digestion and absorption of fats and proteins. Cholecystokinin is released in response to the presence of fats and amino acids in the duodenum. Once released, CCKs act on several target organs.

In the gallbladder, CCKs stimulate contraction, which releases bile into the small intestine. Bile emulsifies fats, breaking them down into smaller droplets, making them easier for enzymes to digest. CCKs also promote the secretion of digestive enzymes from the pancreas. These pancreatic enzymes, such as lipases and proteases, further break down fats and proteins into absorbable molecules.

Beyond digestion, CCKs also have effects on satiety, the feeling of fullness after eating. They signal to the brain, contributing to the termination of a meal. Research has also explored the potential roles of CCKs in other physiological processes, including their influence on the nervous system and their involvement in conditions like anxiety and addiction. The precise mechanisms and full spectrum of CCKs' actions are ongoing areas of scientific investigation.