Changes

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Postganglionic parasympathetic neurons that lead to the digestive tract differ from other organ connections with the PNS as within the GI tract they become part of a plexus of neurons within the walls of the tract. This complex network of neurons is referred to as the ''enteric nervous system'' (ENS). The ENS includes sensory and motor components and is therefore of vital importance in regulating smooth muscle within the GI tract.  

Postganglionic parasympathetic neurons that lead to the digestive tract differ from other organ connections with the PNS as within the GI tract they become part of a plexus of neurons within the walls of the tract. This complex network of neurons is referred to as the ''enteric nervous system'' (ENS). The ENS includes sensory and motor components and is therefore of vital importance in regulating smooth muscle within the GI tract. The wall of the GI tract contains numerous sensory cells that are able to react to different stimuli including; wall stretch, changes in nutrient concentrations, osmolarity, pH and irritation of the mucosal membrane. Stimulation of these sensory cells initiates reflexes which coordinate various elements of the GI tract such as smooth muscle activity, exocrine cells and endocrine (hormone producing) cells.

[[Category:Nervous System - Anatomy & Physiology]]

[[Category:Nervous System - Anatomy & Physiology]]

[[Category:To Do - A&P]]

[[Category:To Do - A&P]]