Synaptic interactions in the enteric plexuses

Abstract

Current interest in the enteric nervous system and its independent integrative function is discussed. It is pointed out that about 25 putative neurotransmitters are considered to possibly participate in the actions of the plexuses comprising the complex. Four synaptic interactions known to occur within the system are analyzed. These are indicated by fast excitatory potentials (fast EPSPs), slow excitatory potentials (slow EPSPs), inhibitory post-synaptic potentials (IPSPs), and presynaptic inhibition. What is known about the neurons involved and the stimuli which produce activities in these elements is presented.