Enteric nervous system of colon (ENS (of colon))

The Enteric nervous system of colon is the network of neurons and supporting cells embedded in the wall of the colon, organized mostly into the myenteric (Auerbach's) and submucosal (Meissner's) plexuses. It independently governs gut motility, secretion, local blood flow, and coordinates complex reflex behaviors of the colon—even in the absence of central nervous system input. The ENS contains millions of neurons and a diversity of neurotransmitter systems similar to the brain, earning it the nickname "second brain." Dysfunction of enteric neurons is linked to numerous motility, inflammatory, infectious, and even neurodegenerative diseases through the gut-brain axis.

Other names

Enteric plexus of colonMyenteric plexus of colon (Auerbach’s plexus)Submucosal plexus of colon (Meissner’s plexus)Intrinsic nerves of colon"Second brain" of colon (colloquial)

Modulation of neurotransmitter release or receptor activity (acetylcholine, serotonin, dopamine, etc.); Blockade or stimulation of ion channels to affect neuronal firing; Inhibition or stimulation of smooth muscle contraction via ENS motor neuron pathways; Modulation of reflex arcs affecting secretion and motility.