Inferior mesenteric ganglion

Definition

The inferior mesenteric ganglion is a cluster of nerve cells (neurons) located in the abdomen that provides sympathetic innervation to the large intestine, rectum, and other pelvic organs. It plays a crucial role in regulating digestive processes such as movement of the bowel and fluid absorption.

Related terms

Autonomic Nervous System:

The part of the nervous system responsible for control of bodily functions not consciously directed, such as breathing, heartbeat, and digestive processes.

Sympathetic Nervous System:

A subdivision of the autonomic nervous system involved in the body's "fight or flight" response, increasing heart rate, and redirecting blood flow towards muscles.

Ganglion: A structure containing a number of nerve cell bodies, typically linked by synapses, and often forming a swelling on a nerve fiber