G cell distribution in normal duodenal mucosa.

G cell presence in the fundus, antrum and duodenum (bulbar, descending and horizontal parts) was investigated by an indirect immunofluorescenc technique in six asymptomatic male subjects. All subjects had normal endoscopic and histological patterns normal gastric acid secretion and normal serum gastrin levels. The results confirm the presence of G cells in the antral mucosa and the three studied duodenal portions. The G cell number of each duodenal portion was significantly lower than the antral one (P less than 0.0005). No difference could be seen between the second and third duodenal portions while each of them had a significantly lower G cell number, when compared with the bulb.