Responses of afferent neurons to the contents of the digestive tract, and their relation to endocrine and immune responses

Abstract

Publisher The lining of the gastrointestinal tract is our largest external surface. This surface performs a difficult task; it needs to be in immediate contact with the contents of the intestine such that nutrients are efficiently absorbed, and it needs to protect against the intrusion of harmful entities, such as toxins and bacteria that may enter the digestive system with food. Thus, the state of the gut needs to be monitored, and the gut itself needs to react to its contents. Signalling is through the immune system, endocrine hormones, and the nervous system. It is therefore no surprise that the digestive tract has three control systems that are more extensive than those of any other orga..