Were still discovering 'new' organs that are vital for our health

In the last few years, researchers have identified, or reclassified, new organs and organ-like structures — and they’re not just trivial.

They may explain symptoms like dry mouth, bloating, or even why some cancers spread so fast.

Here are 3 of the most talked-about ‘new’ organs

Tubarial Salivary Glands (2020)

Found tucked behind the nose and upper throat.
Help keep your throat lubricated.
When damaged (eg during radiation), they can cause dry mouth, difficulty swallowing, irritation.

Interstitium (2018–2020)

A hidden network of fluid-filled spaces between tissues.
Acts like a shock absorber and fluid highway in your body.
If disrupted, it may drive swelling, fibrosis, or even give cancers an easy path to spread.

Mesentery (Reclassified as an Organ)

A fold of tissue anchoring your intestines to the abdomen.
Organises blood, lymph, and nerve supply to our gut.
Linked to gut inflammation, circulation, and possibly autoimmune gut conditions.

Why this matters

These discoveries show us that not only is our body is still revealing secrets, but that we are open to seeing them. When these systems break down, the ripple effects can explain nagging symptoms or chronic illness patterns.