Hormone · Peptide hormone
Secretin
A 27-amino-acid hormone that activates the secretin receptor to modulate pancreatic secretion, used in GI physiology research.
- Length
- 27 amino acids
- Half-life
- Approximately 2-3 minutes in plasma
- Mechanism
- Binds to the secretin receptor (SCTR), a G protein-coupled receptor, primarily stimulating the pancreas and biliary ducts to release bicarbonate-rich fluid.
- Studied in
- Used as a tool in gastrointestinal physiology research to study pancreatic and biliary function, and in neuroscience to probe receptor activity in the brain.
About Secretin
Secretin is a 27-amino-acid peptide hormone produced by S-cells in the duodenum in response to gastric acid. Historically, it was the first substance to be proposed as a 'hormone'. Its structure places it in a superfamily of peptides that includes glucagon, vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), and growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH).
The primary physiological action of secretin is to stimulate the pancreas to secrete a volume of fluid rich in bicarbonate, which neutralizes duodenal pH. This peptide is also a reference compound with a clinical history. Beyond its classic gastrointestinal role, the discovery of secretin receptors in the central nervous system has prompted research into its potential neuromodulatory functions.
Laboratory notes
- This molecule is a reference compound with a clinical history.
- It belongs to the glucagon/VIP/GHRH peptide superfamily, sharing structural homology with these other signaling molecules.
- The peptide is sensitive to pH and enzymatic degradation; careful handling and storage of reconstituted solutions at -20°C or below is recommended.
Storage and reconstitution basics: storage guide.
Questions about Secretin
What is the primary function of the secretin receptor?
The secretin receptor (SCTR) is a class B G protein-coupled receptor. When activated by secretin, its primary function in the gut is to increase intracellular cyclic AMP (cAMP), leading to the secretion of bicarbonate and water from pancreatic and biliary ductal cells.
How is secretin related to glucagon and VIP?
Secretin, glucagon, and VIP belong to the same family of peptide hormones. They share similarities in their amino acid sequences and three-dimensional structures, and their receptors are also structurally related.
What is its role outside the GI tract?
Secretin receptors have been identified in the brain, heart, and kidney. This has led to laboratory research investigating its role in central regulation of water balance, synaptic transmission, and renal function, though these roles are less characterized than its digestive function.
Is Secretin for human use?
No. It is supplied strictly for in-vitro laboratory research and is not for human or animal consumption.
Related research peptides
All products are sold for laboratory research use only. Not for human consumption, not a medicine, not for diagnosing, treating or preventing any condition.