Cholecystokinin
Also known as: CCK, CCK-8, pancreozymin
Cholecystokinin, often shortened to CCK, is a peptide hormone produced in the gut and also found in the brain. In digestion research it is known for prompting gallbladder contraction and the release of pancreatic enzymes after eating, and it is also studied for its role in satiety signaling.
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Overview
Hormone of the gastrointestinal system
Cholecystokinin is a peptide hormone of the gastrointestinal system responsible for stimulating the digestion of fat and protein. Cholecystokinin, formerly called pancreozymin, is synthesized and secreted by enteroendocrine cells in the duodenum, the first segment of the small intestine. Its presence causes the release of pancreatic juice from the pancreas and bile from the gallbladder.
Mechanism of Action
CCK acts through two G protein coupled receptors. Signaling through CCK-A receptors in the pancreas promotes amylase release, while CCK-B receptor activity in the stomach is tied to gastric acid secretion. In the gut more broadly, the hormone coordinates gallbladder contraction with enzyme delivery into the intestine during digestion.
Research History
Cholecystokinin was first described through its effects on the gallbladder and pancreas. It was also known by the name pancreozymin, an alias that reflects its pancreatic enzyme connection, and shorter forms such as CCK-8 became standard tools in receptor research. Its function in the brain remains less clear than its digestive roles.
What Researchers Are Saying
Community Reports - Not Medical Advice
The following is aggregated from public forums, Reddit, and research communities. These are anecdotal reports from researchers only - not verified clinical data and not a recommendation of any kind.
Cholecystokinin (also known as CCK, CCK-8) is studied within the peptide research community. Satiety and digestive peptide that regulates gallbladder contraction and pancreatic enzyme release; researched in appetite regulation.
Last updated October 28, 2026
Research status: active. Cholecystokinin appears across peptide research forums and academic literature. Researchers note this compound falls in the other category.
Last updated October 28, 2026
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