Chief cells are specialized cells found in the stomach lining, specifically in the gastric glands. Their primary function is to produce and secrete digestive enzymes, particularly pepsinogen, which is an inactive form of the enzyme pepsin. Pepsinogen is activated in the acidic environment of the stomach, allowing it to break down proteins into smaller peptides. These cells play a crucial role in the digestive process, working alongside other cell types in the stomach, such as parietal cells, which secrete hydrochloric acid. The coordinated activity of chief cells and parietal cells ensures that food is effectively digested, contributing to overall nutrient absorption in the gastrointestinal tract.