intrinsic factor n a substance produced by the normal gastrointestinal mucosa that facilitates absorption of vitamin B12
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a glycoprotein secreted in the stomach. The secretion of intrinsic factor is necessary for the absorption of vitamin B12; a failure of secretion of intrinsic factor leads to a deficiency of the vitamin and the condition of pernicious anaemia.
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a glycoprotein secreted by the parietal cells of the gastric glands, necessary for the absorption of vitamin B12> (cyanocobalamin). Lack of intrinsic factor, with consequent deficiency of vitamin B12>, results in pernicious anemia.Medical dictionary. 2011.