The mesentery – which encloses the intestines and attaches them to the wall of the abdomen – seems not to be a fragmented set of incoherent parts, but actually one continuous whole. That means it can be classified as an organ.
The mesentery is a vital part of human existence. As far as we know today, it does three things:
- It secretes serous fluid, which decreases friction and allows peristaltic movements that aide in digestion.
- It provides a passageway for lymphatics, nerves, arteries and veins between the body wall and internal organs.
- It holds the intestines in place.
Yet the function of the mesentery is still being explored, and the recent discovery that it is one continuous organ as opposed to a number of separate parts opens up the door for more research on the functions, ailments, and cures around this life-critical organ.
More information: Scientists confirm a ‘new’ human organ
