THE ENTERIC NERVOUS SYSTEM & THE GUT-BRAIN AXIS

The enteric nervous system (ENS) is a complex network of neurons that line the gastrointestinal (GI) tract from the esophagus to the rectum. The ENS is responsible for the motility and secretory functions of the GI tract. The ENS is often referred to as the “brain in the gut” because it is capable of independent function and can modulate GI function in response to local and systemic cues.

The ENS is innervated by the vagus nerve, which transmits information from the brain to the gut, and by sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves, which modulate GI function in response to local cues. The ENS is also influenced by the gut microbiome, which is the community of microbes that resides in the GI tract. The gut microbiome is important for the development and function of the ENS.

The gut-brain axis is the communication pathway between the brain and the gut. The gut-brain axis is important for the regulation of GI function, metabolism, and immune function. The gut-brain axis is also involved in the development of anxiety and depression.

Given that the ENS regulates the production of over 90% of the body's serotonin (a primary mood-stabilizing hormone), gut health plays an important role in overall emotional well-being. The ENS, gut microbiome, and gut-brain axis are all interconnected and play important roles in the health and function of the GI tract and overall health.