What nervous system controls intestinal peristalsis?
May 27, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Chao
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, intestinal motility is regulated by the autonomic nervous system and the intrinsic nervous system of the intestine. The movement of the gastrointestinal tract is primarily controlled by the autonomic nervous system, including the sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves. The sympathetic nerves promote intestinal contraction and peristalsis by releasing substances such as adrenaline, whereas the parasympathetic nerves facilitate intestinal relaxation and peristalsis by releasing acetylcholine.
Under normal circumstances, intestinal motility is regulated by the autonomic nervous system and the intrinsic nervous system of the intestine itself. The details are as follows:
1. Autonomic Nervous System
Intestinal movement is primarily controlled by the autonomic nervous system, which includes the sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves. The sympathetic nerves promote intestinal contraction and motility by releasing substances such as adrenaline; the parasympathetic nerves facilitate intestinal relaxation and motility by releasing acetylcholine.
2. Intrinsic Nervous System of the Intestine
The intestine also possesses its own complete nervous system, known as the enteric nervous system. This system includes the mesenteric plexus, the intramural plexuses (such as the myenteric and submucosal plexuses), and visceral nervous components, which can independently regulate intestinal movement and secretion, thus playing an important role in modulating intestinal motility. In summary, neural control of intestinal motility originates from both the autonomic nervous system and the intrinsic enteric nervous system, with both systems working together to regulate intestinal movement and function.
