Enteric Nervous System: Structure, Relationships and Functions

Abstract

© 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. The enteric nervous system is a component of the neural control systems for the digestive organs. It contains full reflex circuits for control of intestinal motility, fluid transport, blood flow and nutrient handling. It controls these functions in concert with integrating centers in the lower brain stem, sympathetic ganglia and the spinal cord. The enteric nervous system consists of numerous ganglia that are embedded in the walls of the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon, biliary system and pancreas. It contains intrinsic sensory neurons, interneurons and several classes of motor neurons (including motor neurons to gut muscle, to arteries in..