Brunner's glands

Overview
Brunner's glands (or duodenal glands) are compound tubular submucosal glands located throughout the duodenum. The main function of these glands is to produce an alkaline secretion (containing bicarbonate) in order to:
 * protect the duodenum from the acidic content of chyme (which is introduced into the duodenum from the stomach);
 * provide an alkaline condition for the intestinal enzymes to be active, thus enabling absorption to take place;
 * lubricate the intestinal walls.

They are also the distinguishing feature of the duodenum.