Auerbach’s Plexus

Auerbach's plexus lies between the longitudinal (outer muscle layer) and circular muscular (inner) coats of the duodenum. Peristaltic movements of digesting material originate in the muscles (myogenic) and are initiated by local reflexes. The peristaltic reflex can occur without any neural connections to the brain or spinal cord. Stimulation of the sympathetic nerves inhibits movements while parasympathetic stimulation accelerates peristalsis.