Submucosa of stomach

The submucosa of stomach is a fibroelastic connective tissue layer located between the mucosa and the muscularis externa. It provides structural support to the gastric wall and contains a rich network of blood vessels, lymphatic vessels, and autonomic nerves, which supply and regulate the overlying mucosa.

Embedded within the submucosa is the submucosal (Meissner's) plexus, a component of the enteric nervous system that regulates local blood flow, glandular secretion, and mucosal function. The submucosa is highly vascular, serving as the principal conduit through which arteries, veins, and lymphatics reach the gastric mucosa.

Its loose and elastic connective tissue permits the mucosa to move independently of the underlying muscular layers and facilitates the formation of the gastric rugae - the temporary mucosal folds present when the stomach is empty - that flatten as the stomach distends during filling.

Consequently, the submucosa of stomach plays an essential role in supporting gastric secretion, vascular supply, neural regulation, and gastric expansion.