AJP - Gastrointestinal and Liver Physiology, Vol 248, Issue 5 495-G500, Copyright © 1985 by American Physiological Society
Motility of the small intestine: a look ahead
J. R. Mathias and C. A. Sninsky
Motility of the gastrointestinal tract has become an important discipline
of gastroenterology. In this paper we review important observations made
during the early development of this discipline, note the current level of
knowledge, and look ahead to some of the questions we believe will be
addressed in the near future. Is the slow wave the action potential
equivalent of the longitudinal muscle layer? How does the migrating action
potential complex interrelate with the migrating myoelectric complex--are
they two separate complexes under different control mechanisms? How do the
myenteric plexus neurons relate to these complexes? Does the muscularis
mucosa control the contraction and relaxation of the villous tips? Is there
a finite area in the small intestine that can function as the pacemaker?
How important are substances within the lumen in controlling motility?
Finally, we emphasize the importance of structure and function of the
plexus neurons in motility studies. We also stress the importance of
collaboration and a multidisciplinary approach for future understanding of
the mechanisms of the small intestine in health and disease.
