Technical Terms Enteric Nervous System (ENS): A complex network of neurons and glia located in the gastrointestinal tract that autonomously regulates various aspects of digestive function.

The enteric nervous system (ENS) regulates proper immune response, as well as enzyme and electrolyte secretion, within the jejunum.

The Gut-Brain-Spine Axis and Mental Health The bidirectional communication network between our central nervous system and enteric nervous system (often called our "second brain") occurs through ...

Cavin, J-B., et al. (2023) Intestinal distension orchestrates neuronal activity in the enteric nervous system of adult mice. The Journal of Physiology. doi.org/10.1113/JP284171.

But if you ask me, the enteric nervous system is too important and too sophisticated to be considered the ‘little brother,’” said Berghe. This story was translated and adapted from MediQuality.