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DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1771466
Overview of the Enteric Nervous System
Funding M.C.: DK122280 and DK125680.G.M.M.: AT011203 and DK113800.
K.M.S.: DK057236 and DK120759.
![](https://www.thieme-connect.de/media/sin/202304/lookinside/thumbnails/10-1055-s-0043-1771466_20230048-1.jpg)
Abstract
Propulsion of contents in the gastrointestinal tract requires coordinated functions of the extrinsic nerves to the gut from the brain and spinal cord, as well as the neuromuscular apparatus within the gut. The latter includes excitatory and inhibitory neurons, pacemaker cells such as the interstitial cells of Cajal and fibroblast-like cells, and smooth muscle cells. Coordination between these extrinsic and enteric neurons results in propulsive functions which include peristaltic reflexes, migrating motor complexes in the small intestine which serve as the housekeeper propelling to the colon the residual content after digestion, and mass movements in the colon which lead to defecation.
Authors' Contributions
M.C., G.M.M., and K.M.S. conceived, developed, and wrote the entire manuscript.
Publication History
Article published online:
10 August 2023
© 2023. Thieme. All rights reserved.
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