Physiology of the Gastrointestinal Tract

A collection of vocabulary flashcards related to the physiology of the gastrointestinal tract, including key terms and definitions to aid in understanding and memorization.

Gastrointestinal (GI) tract

A tube-like structure that extends from the mouth to the anus, responsible for digestion and nutrient absorption.

Motility

The ability of the GI tract to move food through muscular contractions.

Interstitial Cells of Cajal (ICC)

Specialized smooth muscle cells that generate rhythmic electrical activity in the GI tract.

Slow waves

Rhythmical undulations in the membrane potential of gut smooth muscle that facilitate contractions.

Enteric Nervous System (ENS)

A complex network of neurons that govern the functions of the GI tract.

Deglutition

The process of swallowing food, involving both voluntary and involuntary stages.

Peristalsis

The wave-like muscle contractions that move food through the digestive tract.

Bolus

A rounded mass of food that is prepared for swallowing.

Sphincter

A circular muscle that constricts or relaxes to control the passage of substances through an opening.

Carnivores

Animals that primarily consume meat.

Herbivores

Animals that primarily consume plant matter.

Omnivores

Animals that eat both plants and meat.

Mastication

The process of chewing food to prepare it for swallowing.

Facial Nerve

A cranial nerve that controls the muscles involved in food prehension.

Action Potential

A temporary change in electrical potential across a cell membrane that triggers muscle contractions.

Membrane Potential

The electric potential difference across a cell's membrane, crucial for cell function.

Electrolytes

Minerals in body fluids that carry an electric charge, important for normal body function.

Nutrient Absorption

The process by which nutrients from food are absorbed into the bloodstream through the intestinal wall.