where is intrinsic factor secreted what is its function
Intrinsic factor The intrinsic factor is secreted by the stomach, and so is present in the gastric juice as well as in the gastric mucous membrane.[8] The optimum pH for its action is approximately 7.[9] Its concentration does not correlate with the amount of HCl or pepsin in the gastric juice, e.g., intrinsic factor may be present even when pepsin is largely absent.[10] The site of formation of the intrinsic factor varies in different species. In pigs it is obtained from the pylorus and beginning of the duodenum;[11] in human beings it is present in the fundus and body of the stomach.[12]