enterochromaffin cell

Enterochromaffin cells are a type of epithelial cell found in the lining of the digestive tract, particularly concentrated in the small intestine and appendix. These cells contain granules that are believed to have a secretory function.1

Key facts about enterochromaffin cells:
* Location: Primarily in the mucous membrane lining of the intestine and in the Lieberkühn glands.1
* Contents: Their granules contain serotonin, a chemical that stimulates smooth muscle contractions.1
* Function: Serotonin is thought to diffuse out of these cells, stimulating neurons in the digestive tract walls to produce peristalsis, the wavelike contractions that move food through the intestines.1
* Other Names: Also referred to as argentaffin cells.1
* Related Cells: Enterochromaffin-like (ECL) cells, found in the stomach, also secrete serotonin.23

Enterochromaffin cells are also found in the islets of Langerhans within the pancreas, where they synthesize serotonin.2