Anatomy & Physiology: Current Research
Open Access

Abstract

Gastrointestinal Motility: Current Advances in Physiological Research

Arjun Shrestha

Gastrointestinal (GI) motility is a fundamental physiological process that ensures the coordinated movement of ingested food, digestive secretions and waste products throughout the gastrointestinal tract. Efficient motility is essential for nutrient digestion, absorption, fluid balance, immune regulation and maintenance of the gut microbiome. Although gastrointestinal motility has traditionally been explained through neural and muscular mechanisms, recent advances in physiology have revealed a far more complex regulatory network involving the enteric nervous system, smooth muscle cells, interstitial cells of Cajal, immune mediators, endocrine signaling and the intestinal microbiota. The gastrointestinal tract possesses an intrinsic nervous system known as the Enteric Nervous System (ENS), often referred to as the "second brain." Comprising millions of neurons organized into the myenteric and submucosal plexuses, the ENS independently regulates peristalsis, secretion, blood flow and mucosal function while maintaining continuous communication with the central nervous system through the gut brain axis.

Published Date: 2025-04-02; Received Date: 2025-03-03