Enteric Nervous System (ENS) in the Colon (ENS)

The enteric nervous system (ENS) in the colon is a complex network of neurons and glial cells that independently regulates gut functions such as motility, secretion, blood flow, immune responses, and interactions with the microbiome. It consists primarily of the myenteric and submucosal plexuses, controlling muscle contraction/relaxation and secretion/absorption respectively. The ENS can operate independently from central nervous system input but also communicates bidirectionally with it, allowing integration of local reflexes with whole-body physiological demands. Dysfunction can lead to gastrointestinal disorders affecting motility or barrier integrity.

Other names

Intrinsic nervous system of the colonSecond brain of the gutMyenteric plexusAuerbach's plexusSubmucosal plexusMeissner's plexus

Varies depending on specific neurotransmitter and receptor involved. Examples include: stimulation or inhibition of smooth muscle contraction, modulation of epithelial cell secretion, alteration of local blood flow, and modulation of immune cell activity.