Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

14. The Autonomic Nervous System

Introduction to the Autonomic Nervous System

Anatomy & Physiology

14. The Autonomic Nervous System

Introduction to the Autonomic Nervous System

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Problem 9c

Textbook Question

What are the major components of
(c) the enteric nervous system?

Verified step by step guidance

Understand that the enteric nervous system (ENS) is a subdivision of the autonomic nervous system that governs the function of the gastrointestinal tract. It operates independently but can communicate with the central nervous system.

Learn that the ENS is composed of two major plexuses: the myenteric plexus (Auerbach's plexus) and the submucosal plexus (Meissner's plexus). These plexuses are networks of neurons embedded in the walls of the gastrointestinal tract.

The myenteric plexus is located between the longitudinal and circular muscle layers of the gastrointestinal tract and primarily controls gastrointestinal motility (movement of the gut).

The submucosal plexus is found in the submucosa layer of the gastrointestinal tract and primarily regulates secretion and blood flow within the gut.

Recognize that the ENS contains sensory neurons, interneurons, and motor neurons, which work together to monitor the gut environment, process information, and coordinate responses such as muscle contractions and glandular secretions.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Enteric Nervous System (ENS)

The enteric nervous system is a complex network of neurons that governs the function of the gastrointestinal system. Often referred to as the 'second brain,' it operates independently of the central nervous system but can communicate with it. The ENS is responsible for regulating digestive processes, including motility, secretion, and blood flow.

Neurons in the ENS

The enteric nervous system contains two main types of neurons: sensory neurons, which detect changes in the gut environment, and motor neurons, which control the muscles and glands of the digestive tract. These neurons are organized into two primary plexuses: the myenteric plexus, which regulates gut motility, and the submucosal plexus, which manages enzyme secretion and blood flow.

Neurotransmitters in the ENS

Neurotransmitters play a crucial role in the functioning of the enteric nervous system. Key neurotransmitters include acetylcholine, which stimulates gut motility, and serotonin, which regulates intestinal movements and sensations. The balance and interaction of these neurotransmitters are essential for maintaining proper digestive function and responding to various stimuli.

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Related Practice

Textbook Question

Effects produced by the parasympathetic branch of the ANS include

(a) Dilation of the pupils

(b) Increased secretion by digestive glands

(d) Increased heart rate

(e) Increased breakdown of glycogen by the liver

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Textbook Question

Starting in the spinal cord, trace an action potential through the sympathetic division of the ANS until it reaches a target organ in the abdominopelvic region.

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Textbook Question

Briefly explain why the following terms are sometimes used to refer to the autonomic nervous system: involuntary nervous system and emotional-visceral system.

Describe the anatomical relationship of the white and gray rami communicantes to the spinal nerve, and indicate the kind of fibers found in each ramus type.

Which of the effects listed in response to question 9 would be reversed by parasympathetic activity?

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Textbook Question

All preganglionic autonomic fibers release______at their axon terminals, and the effects are always_____ .

(a) norepinephrine, inhibitory

(b) norepinephrine, excitatory

(d) acetylcholine, inhibitory