Oxyntic cells are located in

Options

A. Islets of Langerhans and secrete insulin
B. Kidney and secrete renin
C. Gastric epithelium and secrete HCl
D. Gastric epithelium and secrete pepsin

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Oxyntic Cells**: Oxyntic cells, also known as parietal cells, are specialized cells found in the stomach. They play a crucial role in the digestive process.

2. **Location of Oxyntic Cells**: These cells are primarily located in the gastric glands, which are found in the lining of the stomach, specifically in the fundus and body regions.

3. **Function of Oxyntic Cells**: The main function of oxyntic cells is to secrete hydrochloric acid (HCl) and intrinsic factor. Hydrochloric acid is essential for digestion, while intrinsic factor is important for the absorption of vitamin B12.

4. **Analyzing the Options**:
- **Option A**: Eyelids of Langerhans and secrete insulin - This is incorrect because the eyelids of Langerhans are located in the pancreas and secrete insulin.
- **Option B**: Kidney and secrete renin - This is also incorrect as the kidneys are involved in the secretion of renin, not oxyntic cells.
- **Option C**: Gastric epithelium and secrete HCl - This is correct, as oxyntic cells are indeed located in the gastric epithelium and they secrete HCl.
- **Option D**: Gastric epithelium and secrete pepsin - This is incorrect because pepsin is secreted by chief cells, not oxyntic cells.

5. **Conclusion**: Based on the analysis, the correct answer is option C: gastric epithelium and secrete HCl.