*3.1.1 Intrinsic innervation*

The ENS is integrative system of neurons with structural complexity and functional heterogeneity, similar to these of brain and spinal cord. Its main role is to control motility, secretion, mucosal transport and blood flow of the GIT [32]. The ENS realizes these functions via motor neurons, localized in ganglia, composing a final common pathway to the effector cells of the GIT. Although these specialized motor neurons receive some impulses from CNS through parasympathetic and sympathetic pathways, their function is predominantly coordinated by sensory neurons and interneurons localized within the ENS [30].
