Gastrointestinal mnemonic

Source and action of GI hormones

The mnemonic

Gastrin Stomach, CCK gall, Secretin bicarbonate

What each word stands for

  • GastrinG cells of the stomach raise acid
  • CCKI cells of the duodenum contract the gallbladder
  • SecretinS cells of the duodenum stimulate bicarbonate

Why it matters clinically

Explains Zollinger–Ellison and gallbladder responses to fat.

Where it stops being reliable

It leaves out GIP, motilin and others.

Teaching aid, still awaiting independent review. Confirm facts in a standard source.

More mnemonics

Common questions

What is the Gastrointestinal mnemonic?

Gastrin Stomach, CCK gall, Secretin bicarbonate. It helps you recall: Source and action of GI hormones.

What does "Gastrin" stand for?

G cells of the stomach raise acid

What does "CCK" stand for?

I cells of the duodenum contract the gallbladder

What does "Secretin" stand for?

S cells of the duodenum stimulate bicarbonate

What are all the parts of the Gastrin Stomach, CCK gall, Secretin bicarbonate mnemonic?

Gastrin: G cells of the stomach raise acid; CCK: I cells of the duodenum contract the gallbladder; Secretin: S cells of the duodenum stimulate bicarbonate.

Which topic does this mnemonic belong to?

It belongs to Gastrointestinal in Physiology.

Where does this mnemonic stop being reliable?

It leaves out GIP, motilin and others.

How is this useful clinically?

Explains Zollinger–Ellison and gallbladder responses to fat.

How do I make this mnemonic stick?

Say it aloud, write it from memory tomorrow, then again in a week. Then test yourself on a Physiology question about Gastrointestinal.

Is this a standard mnemonic?

It is a teaching aid written or adapted by our team. Some resemble ones students share informally. Check any fact that matters in a standard source.