The mesentery is a newly discovered organ by scientists. Previously, researchers thought it was several separate structures, but in 2016 enough evidence was discovered to classify it as an organ. It is a membrane that encases the intestines and helps store fats, but does it have other functions? Where is it located in the body? What are the diseases that may affect him?

What are the mesentery?

The mesentery, which is called in English (Mesentery), is a group of tissues that form a membrane that surrounds the intestine and connects it to the abdominal wall; to hold it in place,

Some may also call it the mesenteric, and it is found in the back of the abdomen, where the aorta (the main artery) branches into another large artery called the superior mesenteric artery.

This area is sometimes referred to as the mesenteric root zone, as it spreads from this root zone to its sites throughout the abdomen.

It consists of several parts, including:

• Small-intestinal mesentery: In this region of the mesentery it is associated with the small intestine, specifically the regions of the jejunum and ileum.
• Right mesocolon: This region of the mesentery runs flat along the posterior abdominal wall.
• Transverse mesocolon: This broad region of the transverse colon attaches to the posterior abdominal wall.
• Left mesocolon: Like the mesentery of the right colon, this region of the mesentery also runs flat along the posterior abdominal wall.
• Mesosigmoid: This area connects the sigmoid colon (part of the large intestine) to the pelvic wall.
• Mesorectum: This part is connected to the rectum.

mesentery function

According to studies and research conducted, the main functions of the mesentery include the following:

• Fixing the intestines in place, and preventing them from collapsing and falling into the pelvic area.
• Allowing lymph vessels, blood vessels, and nerves to reach the intestines.

Another study indicated the presence of mesenteric lymph nodes, which are small glands located throughout the body that help fight infections.

These lymph nodes contain several types of immune cells and can trap pathogens, such as viruses and bacteria. They can take samples of bacteria from the gut and then generate an immune response when necessary.

In addition, the mesentery may produce a protein called C-reactive protein (CRP). This protein is a marker of inflammation. It is usually produced in the liver, but may also be produced by the fat cells of the mesentery.

Diseases of the mesentery

According to the above, if the mesentery does not form properly during fetal development, the intestines can collapse or become twisted, and this may lead to blockage of blood vessels or tissue death in the abdomen, both of which are serious conditions.

Diseases that may affect this important organ include:

• Mesenteric lymphadenitisSome also call it mesenteric adenitis, an inflammation of the lymph nodes inside.
• Sclerosing mesenteritis Also called mesenteric panniculitis, it occurs when the tissues that hold the small intestine in place become inflamed and form scar tissue. This sclerosing infection is a rare disease, and its causes are not yet clear.
• Mesenteric ischemiaIn this condition, blockage of an artery cuts off blood flow to part of the intestine. This occurs when narrowed or blocked arteries restrict blood flow to the small intestine, which may lead to reduced blood flow to the intestine and permanent damage.

The mesentery and Crohn’s disease

Crohn’s disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease that causes inflammation of the digestive tract and intestinal tissue. The mesentery of people with Crohn’s disease often contains a greater amount and thickness of fatty tissue.

One 2016 study highlighted the mesenteric adipose tissue of people with Crohn’s disease, and the results suggested that targeting it might be an effective treatment option for Crohn’s disease.

In 2011, probiotic treatment (the use of good bacteria that helps keep the body healthy and functioning) improved inflammation-related imbalances in tissue samples from people with Crohn’s disease.

Removing part of the mesentery may also be effective. To reduce the chance of Crohn’s disease returning after bowel resection.