Submucosal plexus

Submucosal Plexus

The Submucosal Plexus (also known as Meissner's Plexus) is a network of nerve fibers and neuron cell bodies located in the submucosa, a layer of the human gastrointestinal tract. It is part of the enteric nervous system, which is responsible for regulating the processes of the digestive system.

Etymology

The Submucosal Plexus is named after the German anatomist, Georg Meissner, who first described it in the 19th century.

Structure

The Submucosal Plexus is located in the submucosa, a layer of dense connective tissue that supports the mucosa, the innermost layer of the gastrointestinal tract. It is composed of both sensory and motor neurons. The sensory neurons monitor the conditions in the gastrointestinal tract, while the motor neurons control the activity of the glands and smooth muscle in the mucosa.

Function

The primary function of the Submucosal Plexus is to regulate the local control of the gastrointestinal tract. It controls the secretions of the gastrointestinal tract, as well as the absorption of nutrients. It also plays a role in controlling the blood flow to the mucosa, and in regulating the contractions of the smooth muscle in the mucosa.

Clinical Significance

Damage to the Submucosal Plexus can lead to a variety of gastrointestinal disorders, including Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Hirschsprung's disease. In Hirschsprung's disease, for example, the absence of the Submucosal Plexus in a segment of the bowel leads to a lack of peristalsis, causing severe constipation and abdominal distension.

See Also

• Myenteric Plexus
• Enteric Nervous System
• Gastrointestinal Tract

References

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