MYENTERIC Meaning and
Definition
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Myenteric refers to the network of nerves, also known as the myenteric plexus, that are found between the layers of smooth muscle in the gastrointestinal tract. It is part of the enteric nervous system, which is responsible for controlling the functions of the digestive system.
The myenteric plexus primarily consists of interconnected ganglia, which are collections of nerve cell bodies, and nerve fibers. These ganglia are located within the muscular wall of the gut, specifically sandwiched between the circular and longitudinal layers of smooth muscle. The nerve fibers in the myenteric plexus extend in both directions along the entire length of the gastrointestinal tract.
The main function of the myenteric plexus is to regulate and coordinate the contractions of the smooth muscles in the digestive system, a process known as peristalsis. By integrating sensory information from various sources, such as stretch receptors and chemical receptors in the gut, the myenteric plexus can adjust the strength and frequency of muscle contractions in different regions of the digestive tract, aiding in the movement of food and waste materials through the system.
Disruptions in the myenteric plexus can result in a variety of gastrointestinal motility disorders, including conditions like gastroparesis, irritable bowel syndrome, and achalasia. In these cases, the normal control mechanisms of the digestive system are impaired, leading to symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel movements.
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Relating to the myenteron, or muscular coat of the intestine.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for MYENTERIC
- nyenteric
- kyenteric
- jyenteric
- mtenteric
- mgenteric
- mhenteric
- muenteric
- m7enteric
- m6enteric
- mywnteric
- mysnteric
- mydnteric
- myrnteric
- my4nteric
- my3nteric
- myebteric
- myemteric
- myejteric
- myehteric
- myenreric
Etymology of MYENTERIC
The word "myenteric" is derived from two root words: "myo" and "enteric".
The first part of the word, "myo", comes from the Greek word "mys" meaning "muscle". It is commonly used to indicate muscle-related terms in biology and medicine, such as "myocardium" (muscle of the heart) or "myocyte" (muscle cell).
The second part, "enteric", comes from the Greek word "enteron" meaning "intestine". It relates to the gastrointestinal tract, specifically the small and large intestines, where important processes such as digestion and absorption occur.
Therefore, when combined, "myenteric" refers to something that pertains to or is associated with the muscles of the intestines.
Similar spelling word for MYENTERIC
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