Enteric Nervous System

Definition

The enteric nervous system is an intrinsic nervous system located within the gastrointestinal tract that controls its functions. It is often referred to as the 'second brain' due to its complex structure and ability to operate independently of the central nervous system.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The enteric nervous system is composed of approximately 100 million neurons, more than the spinal cord, and can function independently of the central nervous system.
2. It is responsible for coordinating the various functions of the gastrointestinal tract, including motility, secretion, blood flow, and immune function.
3. The enteric nervous system is divided into two main plexuses: the myenteric plexus, which controls gut motility, and the submucosal plexus, which regulates secretion and blood flow.
4. Dysfunction of the enteric nervous system can lead to various gastrointestinal disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn's disease, and gastroparesis.
5. The enteric nervous system is closely linked to the gut microbiome, and the two-way communication between the two is known as the gut-brain axis.

Review Questions

• Explain the role of the enteric nervous system in the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract.
  • The enteric nervous system is responsible for coordinating the various functions of the gastrointestinal tract, including motility, secretion, blood flow, and immune function. It is often referred to as the 'second brain' due to its complex structure and ability to operate independently of the central nervous system. The enteric nervous system is divided into two main plexuses: the myenteric plexus, which controls gut motility, and the submucosal plexus, which regulates secretion and blood flow. This intricate network of neurons allows the gastrointestinal tract to function autonomously, without the direct control of the central nervous system.
• Describe the relationship between the enteric nervous system and the autonomic nervous system.
  • The enteric nervous system is closely connected to the autonomic nervous system, which is responsible for controlling the body's internal organs, including the gastrointestinal tract. The autonomic nervous system is divided into the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions, both of which interact with the enteric nervous system. The sympathetic division generally inhibits gut function, while the parasympathetic division stimulates it. This intricate interplay between the enteric and autonomic nervous systems allows for the fine-tuning of gastrointestinal processes, such as motility, secretion, and blood flow, in response to various physiological and environmental cues.
• Analyze the potential implications of enteric nervous system dysfunction on gastrointestinal health and overall well-being.
  • Dysfunction of the enteric nervous system can lead to various gastrointestinal disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn's disease, and gastroparesis. These conditions can significantly impact an individual's quality of life, as they can cause symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, and nausea. Additionally, the enteric nervous system is closely linked to the gut microbiome, and the two-way communication between the two, known as the gut-brain axis, is crucial for maintaining overall health. Disruptions in this axis can have far-reaching consequences, potentially affecting not only gastrointestinal function but also cognitive, emotional, and immune processes. Understanding the importance of the enteric nervous system and its role in gastrointestinal and overall health is essential for developing effective treatments and preventive strategies for these complex and debilitating conditions.

Related terms

Autonomic Nervous System: The autonomic nervous system is the part of the peripheral nervous system that controls and regulates the body's internal organs, including the gastrointestinal tract. It is divided into the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions, both of which interact with the enteric nervous system.

Myenteric Plexus: The myenteric plexus, also known as Auerbach's plexus, is a network of neurons located between the longitudinal and circular muscle layers of the gastrointestinal tract. It is a key component of the enteric nervous system and is responsible for controlling the motility of the gut.

Submucosal Plexus: The submucosal plexus, also known as Meissner's plexus, is a network of neurons located in the submucosa of the gastrointestinal tract. It is responsible for regulating secretion, blood flow, and other functions of the gut mucosa.