Enteric nervous system (Colonic mucosal sensory nerve endings and myenteric plexus) (ENS)

The colonic mucosal sensory nerve endings and the myenteric plexus are critical components of the enteric nervous system (ENS) responsible for the autonomous regulation of the gastrointestinal tract (Furness, 2012). The myenteric plexus, or Auerbach's plexus, is located between the circular and longitudinal muscle layers and primarily coordinates the motor activity of the gut, such as peristalsis and mass movements (StatPearls, 2023). Mucosal sensory nerve endings, often associated with intrinsic primary afferent neurons (IPANs), respond to mechanical and chemical stimuli from the gut lumen, transmitting signals that trigger secretomotor and vasomotor reflexes (Wood, 2008). Although this entry describes anatomical structures rather than a single molecule, these regions contain a high density of therapeutic targets, including serotonin (5-HT) and opioid receptors (Camilleri, 2009). Pharmacological intervention at these sites is used to manage functional bowel disorders like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and chronic constipation by modulating gut motility and visceral sensitivity (Black & Ford, 2020). Dysfunction in these neural pathways is a hallmark of various motility disorders and chronic visceral pain syndromes (Gershon, 1999).

Other names

Auerbach's plexusIntrinsic primary afferent neuronsGastrointestinal nervous systemMucosal afferentsMyenteric ganglionated plexus

Modulation of enteric neurotransmission and reflex arcs through activation or inhibition of specific receptors (e.g., 5-HT3, 5-HT4, and mu-opioid receptors) located on enteric neurons and sensory endings to alter motility and fluid secretion.