Resistance of gastric mucosa to self-digestion

In recent years, the view of the gastric mucosal barrier as a static entity has given way to a dynamic system, the components of which have recently been reviewed in detail. These complex anatomical and physiological properties are conveniently divided into three categories. The major extrinsic factor is the pre-epithelial mucus-bicarbonate barrier, which provides a first line of defence. Intrinsic protection residing with the mucosal cells per se, involves cytoplasmic pH homeostasis together with epithelial restitution and regeneration. Finally, postepithelial factors within the submucosa and interstitium include the microvasculature and maintenance of acid-base balance.<>