The enteric nervous system is best described as which of the following?

The enteric nervous system is best described as which of the following?

• A. Fully dependent on the CNS for function
• B. Not involved in GI regulation
• C. Highly autonomous
• D. Only modulating hormone release

Answer: (C)

Local control of gut function by the enteric nervous system allows it to operate largely without input from the brain or spinal cord. It has two major networks in the gut wall—the myenteric plexus (motility) and the submucosal plexus (secretion, absorption, and local blood flow)—that form intrinsic reflex circuits. These circuits can coordinate peristaltic movements, regulate secretions, and adjust responses based on luminal contents right at the site, without needing CNS input. It still communicates with the CNS, but it can function independently to a large extent, which is why it’s described as highly autonomous. The other statements don’t fit because the ENS is not fully CNS-dependent, it is clearly involved in GI regulation, and it does more than just modulate hormone release.

Local control of gut function by the enteric nervous system allows it to operate largely without input from the brain or spinal cord. It has two major networks in the gut wall—the myenteric plexus (motility) and the submucosal plexus (secretion, absorption, and local blood flow)—that form intrinsic reflex circuits. These circuits can coordinate peristaltic movements, regulate secretions, and adjust responses based on luminal contents right at the site, without needing CNS input. It still communicates with the CNS, but it can function independently to a large extent, which is why it’s described as highly autonomous. The other statements don’t fit because the ENS is not fully CNS-dependent, it is clearly involved in GI regulation, and it does more than just modulate hormone release.