Chief cell

In general, a chief cell (or a "zymogenic cell") is a cell which releases a precursor enzyme. There are two types of chief cells which are most commonly referenced:

• A gastric chief cell (or "peptic cell") is a cell in the stomach that releases pepsinogen and rennin. Usually when the term "chief cell" or "zymogenic cell" is used without qualification, this is the type meant. This type of cell also secretes gastric lipase enzymes, which help digest triglycerides into free fatty acids and di- and mono-glycerides.
• The parathyroid chief cell is the primary cell of the parathyroid gland. It produces and secretes parathyroid hormone.

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