Physiology and pharmacology of the large intestine Flashcards
How long is the large intestin?
Approx. 1.7m long, 6cm diameter
What is the longitudinal smooth muslce layer in the caecum and colon divided into?
The taeniae coli
Smooth muslce thickened at the internal anal sphincter
Skeletal muscle at the external anal sphincter
What creates haustra?
The activity of the taeniae coli and circular muscle layers in colon causes sac like bulges (haustra)
What material does the caecum recieve?
1-2 L or indigestible residues, unabsorbed biliary components from the terminal ileum
What permits entry of material from the terminal ileum to the caecum?
The gastroileal reflex in response to gastrin and CCK thorough the ileocaecal valve
What is the function of the ileocaecal valve?
Maintains positive resting pressure
Relaxes in response to distension of the duodenum
Contracts in response to distenstion of ascending colon
Controlled by vagus nerve, symp nerves, enteric neurones and hormonal signals
What is the structure of the appendix?
Bilnd-ended tube with extensiev lymphoid tissue connected to the distal caecum via the appendiceal orifice
What does the colon absorb?
Sodium, chloride and water to condence ileocaecal material to solid or semi-solid stool
Short chain fatty acids
What does the colon excrete?
Potassium, bicarbonate and mucus
What is contaiend within faeces?
Water, cellulose, bacteria, bilirubin, small amount of salt
What does the mucosa of the colon contain?
No villus but has colonic folds, crypts and microvilli
What do colonocytes do?
They are surface epithelial cells that mediate electrolyte absorption which by osmosis drives absorption of water
What do crypt cells do?
They mediate ion secretion
What do goblet cells secrete?
Copious mucus containing gylcosaminoglycans which are hydrated to form a slippery surface gel
Trefoil proteins involved in host defence
What enhances sodium absorption and potassium excretion in the colon?
Aldoseterone
What is haustration?
Non-propulsive segmentation
Saccules caused by alternating contraction of circular muscle
Where does haustration occur?
In the proximal colon causing orad movement