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Published on Feb 6, 2021
Physiology
34. Gastrointestinal Reflexes
34. Gastrointestinal Reflexes

1. Enterogastric Reflex

Enterogastric reflex is stimulated by the presence of acid levels in the duodenum at a pH of 3–4. When this reflex is stimulated, the release of gastrin from G- cells in the antrum of the stomach is shut off. In turn, this inhibits gastric motility and the secretion of gastric acid (HCl).

2. Gastrocolic Reflex

Gastrocolic reflex is the physiological reflex that controls the motility, or peristalsis, of the gastrointestinal tract. It involves an increase in motility of the colon in response to stretch in the stomach. Thus, this reflex is responsible for the urge to defecate following a meal. The small intestine also shows a similar motility response. The gastrocolic reflex also helps make room for food in the stomach.

3. Gastroileal Reflex

It works with the gastrocolic reflex to stimulate the urge to defecate. This urge is stimulated by the opening of the ileocecal valve and the movement of the digested contents from the ileum of the small intestine into the colon for compaction.