MODULATION OF PUMPING FUNCTION OF GASTRIC BODY AND ANTROPYLORIC CONTRACTIONS

Gastric and antropyloric phasic contractions control transpyloric pulsatile flow, the major mechanism of gastric emptying. Both the occurrence and patterning of phasic gastric contractions are highly modulated by intestinal feedback mechanisms, with resultant variation in gastric emptying. The observed patterns of these contractions can only be plausibly explained by the action of neural influences on gastric motility. These influences derive from several mechanisms driven by intestinal feedback, central nervous system controls, and higher centers, with transmission of signals via intrinsic enteric pathways and extrinsic nerves. It is suggested that the occurrence and patterning of gastric phasic contractions depend on the spatial specificity and local modulation of the intensity of neural stimulation of gastric muscle. The resultant strength of contraction determines the occurrence and timing of lumen occlusion relative to adjacent regions. The timing of lumen occlusion in adjacent regions may be the major determinant of mechanical outcome.