Enteric nervous system

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Our aim was to provide a synopsis of how the field of enteric neurobiology has advanced during the past year. RECENT FINDINGS: With such a large number of studies to choose from and given our emphasis in last year's issue on developmental aspects of the enteric nervous system, we have focused on several key themes reflecting the current interest in the way the enteric nervous system is altered in disease. SUMMARY: The new basic science information gathered during the past year provides insight into pathophysiological processes and will pave the way for improved understanding of both organic and 'functional' gastrointestinal disorders.