What conditions within the lumen of the gut can be sensed by the body? What is the enteric nervous system, and how does the enteric nervous system use the sensory information from the gut lumen?
What will be an ideal response?
Answer: Sensors in the gut can measure acidity, osmolality, stretch (distension) of the gut, and the concentration of chemicals such as amino acids, monosaccharides and toxins. The enteric nervous system is the branch of the nervous system that exists within the digestive system; it is very extensive. This sensory information is utilized to ensure efficient digestion and absorption; for example to ensure that peristalsis is slowed if more food needs to be digested and absorbed.
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