Match the control mechanisms, labelled a. through d., with the characteristics. (Options may be used more than once or not at all.)
-responsible for coordinating local activity within the digestive tract
A)autonomous smooth muscle function
B)extrinsic (autonomic) nerves
C)hormones
D)intrinsic nerve plexuses

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The intrinsic nerve plexuses, specifically the myenteric plexus and submucosal plexus, are responsible for coordinating local activity within the digestive tract. These plexuses contain sensory neurons, interneurons, and motor neurons that work together to regulate peristalsis, secretion of enzymes and hormones, and blood flow. Autonomous smooth muscle function may play a role in this coordination, but it is not the primary control mechanism. Extrinsic (autonomic) nerves and hormones act on these plexuses to modulate their activity, but they are not responsible for coordinating local activity within the digestive tract.

Match the Control Mechanisms, Labelled A