What layer of the GI tract wall contains glands, blood vessels, and nerves? What layer is the outermost layer that protects the GI tract?

The submucosa is the layer of the GI tract wall that contains glands, blood vessels, and nerves. In addition, the submucosa also contains lymphatic vessels. The outermost layer of the GI tract is the serosa (also known as the serous membrane). This layer is composed of areolar connective tissue that is covered with simple squamous epithelium that protect the GI tract.

The GI tract is sometimes referred to as the alimentary canal. It extends from the mouth to the anus through the ventral cavity. The GI tract includes the mouth, most of the pharynx, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and large intestine. The GI tract aids in the secretion of enzymes needed to digest food, the digestion of food, absorption of nutrients, and defecation of waste.