Understanding the Enteric Nervous System: Myenteric & Submucosal Plexuses

The two major intrinsic nerve plexuses of the enteric nervous system are:

1. Myenteric plexus (Auerbach's plexus): This plexus is located between the longitudinal and circular muscle layers of the muscularis externa. It controls the muscular movements of the gastrointestinal tract, including peristalsis, segmentation, and relaxation.

2. Submucosal plexus (Meissner's plexus): This plexus is located within the submucosa, just beneath the mucosal layer. It controls the secretory and absorptive functions of the gastrointestinal tract, as well as local blood flow and immune responses.