Enteric nervous system (ENS) and colonic mucosa (ENS)

The colonic mucosa and enteric neural apparatus (ENA) represent the integrated physiological system of the large intestine responsible for regulating motility, secretion, and barrier function (Furness, 2012). The ENA, specifically the enteric nervous system (ENS), consists of the myenteric and submucosal plexuses, which contain a vast network of neurons and glia that coordinate peristalsis and local blood flow independently of the central nervous system (Gershon, 1999). The colonic mucosa acts as a critical interface for water absorption and immune surveillance, with its functions tightly regulated by neurotransmitters released from the underlying neural network (Sharkey & Savidge, 2014). This complex tissue system is the site of action for various drugs, such as 5-HT4 agonists (e.g., prucalopride) and guanylate cyclase-C activators (e.g., linaclotide), which are used to treat functional gastrointestinal disorders like chronic idiopathic constipation and irritable bowel syndrome (Rao & Camilleri, 2010). Dysregulation of this apparatus is central to the pathogenesis of conditions such as Hirschsprung disease, where the neural plexuses are absent, and inflammatory bowel disease, where mucosal integrity is compromised (Costa et al., 2000). Because this term describes a multi-component anatomical region rather than a single protein or receptor, it is classified as a biological system rather than a discrete molecular therapeutic target.

Other names

Enteric nervous systemENSIntrinsic nervous systemMyenteric plexusSubmucosal plexusColonic neural networkGut-brain axis (local component)

Modulation of enteric neurotransmission and mucosal ion transport via activation or inhibition of specific receptors (e.g., 5-HT4, GC-C, mu-opioid) to alter intestinal motility and fluid secretion.