Enteric reflexes that influence motility

Abstract

The gut exhibits a variety of movements that depend on the region studied and the timing and composition of the last meal. Primary control of these movements is exerted by the enteric nervous system. Except in the oesophagus and the sphincters, external inputs modulate enteric neural activity, rather than directly controlling muscle movements. In isolated intestine, localised mechanical and chemical stimuli excite enteric neurons to produce stereotypic reflexes in the smooth muscle. The reflex circuits form the basis of the circuitry responsible for more complex motor patterns evoked by more generalised stimuli. The enteric neural circuitry responsible for stereotyped reflexes in the guinea-..