Structural and Functional Organization of the Gastrointestinal Tract

Abstract

Gastrointestinal (GI) tract is organized into regions and layers with structural and functional peculiarities. The tract which begins from the mouth, extending to the anus, is comprised of different layers and tissues. The tissues, composed of different cells, play diverse roles and functions and they constitute the chief determinants of the state of GI functioning. Accessory organs of the GI tract (including the mesentery, which is currently regarded as an organ as well as its structural and functional unit) are discussed. In this chapter, the structural and functional organization of the entire GI tract is presented.