Enteric Nervous System (ENS) Flashcards
What is the ENS
A subdivision of the ANS that directly controls the GI system
Where is the ENS found?
Embedded in the lining of the GI system
How can the ENS work?
INDEPENDENTLY of the brain + spinal cord
What are the 2 plexuses in the ENS
Submucosal plexus
Myenteric plexus
How does the ENS normally communicate w/ the CNS?
Through the parasympathetic + sympathetic NS
When the ENS is communicating with the CNS how is it doing it through the parasympathetic NS
Via the vagus nerve
When the ENS is communicating with the CNS how is it doing it through the Sympathetic NS
Via the prevertebral ganglia
What type of neurones does the ENS have?
Efferent
Afferent
Interneurones
What do all the neurones make capable in the ENS?
Make it capable of carrying reflexes + act as an integrating centre in the absence of CNS input.
Where is the myenteric plexus located?
Between inner + outer layers of the muscularis externa
Where is the submucosal plexus located
In the submucosa
What is the myenteric plexus concerned with?
Motility throughout the whole gut.
How is the myenteric plexus organised?
As a longitudinal chain of neurones.
What happens when the myenteric plexus is stimulated?
⬆️ TONE of gut + velocity + intensity of contractions.
What does inhibition of the myenteric plexus allow?
Relaxation of the sphincters
