Greater Omentum: Multifaceted Interactions in Neurological Recovery and Disease Progression

Abstract

The greater omentum, a unique anatomical structure composed of adipocytes, loose connective tissue, and a dense vascular network. Plays a pivotal role beyond its traditional understanding. It houses specialized immunological units known as 'Milky spots,' making it a key player in immune response. Moreover, the omentum's capacity to enhance tissue perfusion, absorb edema fluid, boost acetylcholine synthesis, and foster neuron repair have rendered it a topic of interest in the context of various diseases, especially neurological disorders. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the intricate anatomy and histology of the greater omentum, casting light on its multifaceted functions and its associations with a spectrum of diseases. With a specific focus on neurological ailments, we delineate the intricate relationship that the omentum shares with other pathologies like stroke and we underly its contribution to serving as a therapeutic agent in neurological disorders. By deciphering the underlying mechanisms and emphasizing areas that demand further investigation. This review aims to spark renewed interest and pave the way for comprehensive studies exploring the greater omentum's potential in neurology and broader medicine overall. Given these diverse interactions that yet remain elusive, we must investigate and understand the nuanced relationship between the greater omentum and pathologies, especially its role in stroke's pathophysiology and therapeutic interventions so as to enhance patient care.

Figure 1.

Multifaceted Functions of the Greater Omentum in Disease. The greater omentum plays a pivotal role in several physiological processes, crucial to both disease modulation and recovery. It acts as an active immunological organ, contributing to the body's defense mechanisms. By fostering angiogenesis, it aids in optimizing blood flow to affected regions. Its unique structure and composition facilitate efficient uptake and management of edematous fluid. The omentum supports increased production of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter vital for various neuronal processes. It can bolster neuro-regenerative capabilities, thereby aiding neural restoration following injuries. Together, these functions highlight the greater omentum's significance in pathophysiological contexts and its potential therapeutic applications.

Figure 2.

Multifaceted Impact of the Greater Omentum on Various Diseases. The greater omentum has profound associations with a range of diseases, both as a therapeutic agent and as a factor contributing to pathology. In Neurological Affiliations, Research suggests the omentum may play a beneficial role in post-stroke recovery, potentially due to its angiogenic and anti-inflammatory properties. Its functions such as increasing tissue perfusion and promoting acetylcholine synthesis make it have a positive impact on the treatment of AD. Moreover, the omentum has been indicated to support revascularization efforts in Moyamoya patients. Preliminary studies hint at the omentum's potential in modulating the disease's progression or its symptomatology. The angiogenic and neuroprotective capabilities of the omentum might aid in the repair and regeneration processes following spinal injuries. In non-neurological diseases, the immune function of the omentum and its ability to increase tissue perfusion generally contribute positively to the body's defense mechanisms as well as to the treatment of diseases, for example, the omentum has a beneficial effect on the treatment of Buerger's disease patients by increasing blood flow to the ischemic limb. But in conditions like peritonitis, they can exacerbate organ damage. The omentum can inadvertently promote the movement or displacement of abdominal tumors, potentially complicating clinical scenarios. Given these diverse interactions, there's an imperative to investigate and understand the nuanced relationship between the greater omentum and diseases, especially its role in stroke's pathophysiology and therapeutic avenues.