Myenteric plexus

Definition

The myenteric plexus is a network of neurons located in the walls of the gastrointestinal tract, responsible for regulating digestive tract motility. It coordinates the muscle contractions that propel food through the digestive system.

Related terms

Gastrointestinal tract: The pathway starting from the mouth and ending at the anus, through which food is digested and absorbed into the body.

Neurons:

Specialized cells that transmit nerve impulses; they are key components of the nervous system, including the myenteric plexus.

Peristalsis:

The series of wave-like muscle contractions that move food through the digestive tract, controlled by networks like the myenteric plexus