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Nerve Supply of the GI Tract

Nerve Supply of the GI Tract

The neuronal supply to the gastrointestinal (GI) tract is essential for regulating various functions, including digestion, absorption, and movement of food. This intricate network of nerves is known as the enteric nervous system (ENS), often referred to as the "second brain" of the body.
The enteric nervous system consists of two major plexuses: the myenteric plexus (Auerbach's plexus) and the submucosal plexus (Meissner's plexus). These plexuses are located within the layers of...

Enteric Nervous System: Regulation of GI Motor Activity

Enteric Nervous System: Regulation of GI Motor Activity

The Enteric Nervous System (ENS) plays a pivotal role in regulating gastrointestinal or GI motor activity. This complex network of nerves, deeply embedded within the gut wall, responds to changes in the gut environment and receives input from both the autonomic nervous system and the central nervous system. By doing so, the ENS operates various programs tailored to the body's nutritional status and needs.
During periods of fasting, the ENS initiates the migrating myoelectric complex, a...

Physiology of Enteric Nervous System and Gut Health

Physiology of Enteric Nervous System and Gut Health

The gastrointestinal tract, responsible for the digestion and absorption of nutrients, is safeguarded by the intestinal barrier, which consists of secretory, physical, and immune components. At the forefront is the secretory barrier, composed of essential elements such as mucus, gut microbiota, and defense proteins. They collaborate to break down food particles, facilitate nutrient absorption, and maintain optimal gut health. These secretory components ensure the smooth functioning of the...

Neural Regulation

Neural Regulation

Digestion begins with a cephalic phase that prepares the digestive system to receive food. When our brain processes visual or olfactory information about food, it triggers impulses in the cranial nerves innervating the salivary glands and stomach to prepare for food.

What is a Nervous System?

What is a Nervous System?

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Oct 20, 2025

Author Spotlight: Enhancing Understanding and Treatment Strategies with the NEC-on-a-Chip Model

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Enteric Nervous System in Neonatal Necrotizing Enterocolitis.

Pavithra Chandramowlishwaran^1,2, Shreya Raja^1,2, Akhil Maheshwari³

¹Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Decatur, GA, USA.

Current Pediatric Reviews

|September 10, 2021

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Abnormalities in the enteric nervous system (ENS) may play a role in necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) development and complications. Protecting the ENS could offer a new avenue for preventing and treating NEC.

Keywords:

Necrotizing enterocolitis enteric nervous system gut dysbiosis intestinal inflammation neonates premature

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Area of Science:

Gastroenterology
Neuroscience
Pediatric Surgery

Background:

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) pathophysiology is unclear, but enteric nervous system (ENS) abnormalities are increasingly implicated.
Research suggests a link between ENS dysfunction and NEC risk and severity.

Purpose of the Study:

To review and scope research on ENS abnormalities in NEC and similar inflammatory bowel disorders (IBDs).
To summarize findings, identify knowledge gaps, and encourage collaborative future research.

Main Methods:

Comprehensive literature search across PubMed, EMBASE, and Scopus databases.
Systematic review of articles meeting study objectives.

Main Results:

Evidence suggests ENS involvement in NEC development and post-NEC complications.
NEC development is associated with specific changes within the ENS.
The ENS appears to modulate NEC-associated changes.

Conclusions:

The enteric nervous system is a potential therapeutic target for NEC.
Protecting the ENS may prevent and treat NEC and its complications.
Further research is needed to fully elucidate the ENS's role in NEC.