Compared with the myenteric plexus, the submucosal (Meissner) plexus is characteristically responsible for which function?
- A Regulating mucosal secretion, blood flow and absorptive activity ✓
- B Coordinating peristaltic contractions of the muscularis externa
- C Transmitting preganglionic parasympathetic input from the vagus to the colon
- D Providing sympathetic postganglionic fibres to the muscularis externa
Correct answer: A. Regulating mucosal secretion, blood flow and absorptive activity
Explanation
The Meissner plexus lies in the submucosa and chiefly controls secretion of glands, mucosal blood flow and epithelial transport, whereas the myenteric plexus between circular and longitudinal muscle layers governs motility. Both plexuses receive preganglionic parasympathetic input, and neither contains sympathetic postganglionic neurons, since sympathetic fibres to the gut synapse in extrinsic prevertebral ganglia before arriving as postganglionic fibres.
Reference: Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.