What is submucosa?

submucosa is a layer of tissue directly below the lining or intestinal mucosa. It contains glands, smooth muscle, nerves, blood and lymphatic blood vessels. In the submucose there is an important network of nerve fibers known as Meissner's plexus. Under the subzukosa, a layer is known as muscularis, which contains a smooth muscle that contradicts the food along the intestine.

Sublucosa is a type of connective tissue where the cells are contained inside the fiber network and gel substances similar to the background. Like the arteries and veins, the submucosa holds a series of glands. In the esophagus, these are cup cells that are small glands secreting mucus. They produce mucus, which is of alkaline nature, and help protect the duoden lining from the effects of stomach acid. Their alkaline secretion also means intestine is at a more suitable pH for the pancreas enzymes. Together with the myenteric plexus located in Muscularis, it is part of what is called the Enteric Nervous System. Enteric nervous system is extremely important in regulating the functiongastrointestinal tract.

While it is connected to the central nervous system, or CNS, the enteric nervous system can also act independently, although the connection between the two systems is needed to make the intestine normally. Information from the intestine can be transferred to the CNS, which then sends the signals back to modify the function of the intestine. Stimulation from outside, such as a look at a tasty food, can be transmitted to the intestine from the CNS, causing secretion of intestinal juices.

Myenteric plexus controls the muscle contractions of the intestinal wall, while the submucosal plexus regulates the glands and blood vessels. This means that the submucosal plexus affects the blood circulation in the intestine and secretion of the substances into the intestine. It is also involved in the production of hormones with nerve cells and glands, which can then enter general circulation.

In the autoimmune disease known as scleroderma, connective tissue overgrows. Fibrous tissue canto be stored in submucose, which worsens the intestinal ability normally. There may be pain, flatulence of the abdomen and diarrhea or constipation. There is no medicine, so treatment is aimed at solving symptoms. Until there are any serious complications, patients can lead full and active lives.