The Enteric Nervous System (ENS) is a semi-autonomous division of the nervous system composed of an intricate network of neurons embedded within the walls of the gastrointestinal tract, often referred to as the “second brain.” It is responsible for directly controlling gut motility, local blood flow, and mucosal secretions. Functioning independently of the central nervous system, yet maintaining communication via the vagus nerve, the ENS plays a critical, bidirectional role in the gut-brain axis, profoundly influencing mood, immune function, and nutrient absorption. Optimal hormonal health is intrinsically linked to a well-functioning ENS.
Origin
The term “enteric” comes from the Greek enteron, meaning “intestine” or “gut,” directly referencing its anatomical location. The concept of it being a “nervous system” acknowledges its complex, neuron-rich structure, which rivals the spinal cord in its complexity. Recognition of the ENS as a distinct and highly functional system emerged as neuroscience expanded beyond the central nervous system.
Mechanism
The ENS operates through two primary plexuses: the myenteric plexus, which governs muscle contraction and motility, and the submucosal plexus, which regulates blood flow and epithelial secretion. This system utilizes a vast array of neurotransmitters, many of which are identical to those found in the brain, such as serotonin and dopamine. Its mechanism allows it to coordinate the complex process of digestion and communicate information about the gut environment back to the brain, forming a crucial neuro-hormonal feedback loop.
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