part of part of has soma location has soma location develops from neural crest derived neuron autonomic neuron neuron migratory enteric neural crest cell enteric neuron 2012-06-28T08:20:31Z Enteric neurons, also known as the neurons of the enteric nervous system (ENS), form a vast and complex network within the walls of the gastrointestinal tract. These unique cells constitute the principal component of the ENS, which is often referred to as the "second brain" or the gut's brain, due to its autonomy from the central nervous system (CNS). While the ENS does communicate with the CNS, it can function independently, thereby playing an essential role in maintaining the body's homeostasis. Enteric neurons are incredibly diverse in function and morphology. Integral to essential processes like peristalsis, secretion, and blood flow regulation, these neurons are further classified into different types based on their roles. The organization of the ENS is characterized by two main ganglionated layers: the inner submucosal (Meissner's) plexus, involved primarily in regulating gastrointestinal blood flow and epithelial cell function, and the outer myenteric (Auerbach's) plexus, which predominantly manages gut motility. Enteric neurons play a significant role in sensing and responding to changes within the gut environment. First, they detect physical and chemical changes, for instance, the arrival of food, and respond accordingly by adjusting gut motility and secretions. Second, they communicate information about the state of the gut to the CNS; however, much of the routine detailed management of the digestive system is carried out within the ENS itself. In addition, they also interact with the gut's large microbial population and the immune system, playing a pivotal role in health and disease. Dysfunctions or alterations in the enteric neurons may contribute to various gastrointestinal disorders, such as functional dyspepsia or irritable bowel syndrome, and neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's. (This extended description was generated by ChatGPT and reviewed by the CellGuide team, who added references, and by the CL editors, who approved it for inclusion in CL. It may contain information that applies only to some subtypes and species, and so should not be considered definitional.) Neuron that is part of the enteric nervous system. https://cellxgene.cziscience.com/cellguide/CL_0007011 ZFA:0005775 enteric nervous system