stomatogastric nervous system

The part of the nervous system that controls the stomach, such as in crabs, lobsters, and flies

Type Organ
Parent Structure organ system subdivision

Sub-structures

insect stomatogastric nervous system Vessel

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the stomatogastric nervous system?
The stomatogastric nervous system (STNS) is the part of the peripheral nervous system in arthropods, such as crabs, lobsters, and insects, that controls the stomach and associated digestive structures. In decapod crustaceans, it consists of the stomatogastric ganglion, paired commissural ganglia, esophageal ganglion, and the connecting nerves, collectively coordinating the motor activity of the foregut.
Where is the stomatogastric nervous system located?
The stomatogastric nervous system is located along the esophagus and dorsal surface of the foregut in arthropods. In crustaceans such as crabs and lobsters, it is situated in the cephalothorax, running from the paired commissural ganglia near the esophagus to the stomatogastric ganglion on the dorsal stomach wall.
What is the function of the stomatogastric nervous system?
The stomatogastric nervous system is involved in generating and coordinating the rhythmic motor patterns that control the movements of the esophagus, gastric mill, and pyloric stomach. It contains central pattern generators that produce stereotyped motor rhythms for food transport and grinding, modulated by neuromodulatory input from commissural neurons and descending projections.
What conditions may affect the stomatogastric nervous system?
In research contexts, manipulations such as stomatogastric nerve transection, pharmacological application of neuromodulators, or temperature changes may be associated with significant alterations in STNS motor output. As a well-characterized invertebrate nervous system, it is used as a model to study general principles of neural circuit modulation, plasticity, and rhythm generation.
How is the stomatogastric nervous system examined?
The stomatogastric nervous system is examined using electrophysiological techniques applied to dissected or semi-intact preparations. Multiple extracellular and intracellular recordings can be made simultaneously from different nerves and neurons. Pharmacological bath application, immunohistochemistry, in situ hybridization, and imaging techniques are used to characterize its structure, neurochemistry, and functional organization.

Related Structures

1st arch mandibular component ventral mandibular arch 1st arch mandibular ectoderm ectoderm of mandibular component 1st arch mandibular mesenchyme mandibular component mesenchyme 1st arch mandibular mesenchyme from head mesenchyme 1st arch mandibular mesenchyme from neural crest 1st arch maxillary component 1st arch maxillary ectoderm ectoderm of maxillary component 1st arch maxillary-mandibular cleft 1st arch maxillary-mandibular groove ectoderm

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

Educational Disclaimer

This content is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical decisions.

Data sources: Terminologia Anatomica, Foundational Model of Anatomy, Wikidata.