Mesentery
The mesentery is a fold of tissue in the abdomen that attaches the intestines to the back wall of the abdominal cavity. It helps support the intestines and contains blood vessels, nerves, and lymphatics that supply the intestines. This structure plays a crucial role in the digestive system by providing stability and facilitating the transport of nutrients.
Recent studies have shown that the mesentery is more than just a supportive structure; it is considered an organ in its own right. This recognition has led to increased interest in understanding its functions and potential implications for conditions like inflammatory bowel disease and obesity.