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Enteric Nervous System: Regulation of GI Motor Activity

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The Enteric Nervous System (ENS) plays a pivotal role in regulating gastrointestinal or GI motor activity. This complex network of nerves, deeply embedded within the gut wall, responds to changes in the gut environment and receives input from both the autonomic nervous system and the central nervous system. By doing so, the ENS operates various programs tailored to the body's nutritional status and needs.
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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jul 3, 2026

Immunostaining to Visualize Murine Enteric Nervous System Development

Immunostaining to Visualize Murine Enteric Nervous System Development

Published on: April 29, 2015

Down syndrome and the enteric nervous system.

¹Division of Paediatric Surgery, Department of Surgical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Stellenbosch, P.O. Box 19063, Tygerberg, 7505, South Africa. swm@sun.ac.za

Pediatric Surgery International

|July 18, 2008

Summary

Down syndrome (DS) is linked to gastrointestinal (GI) issues due to enteric nervous system (ENS) dysfunction. Research explores chromosome 21

Area of Science:

Genetics and Developmental Biology
Gastroenterology
Neuroscience

Background:

Down syndrome (DS), the most common human chromosomal abnormality, is frequently associated with significant gastrointestinal (GI) abnormalities.
These GI issues, affecting up to 77% of DS children, can be structural or functional, impacting surgical outcomes and overall health.
Emerging evidence points to enteric nervous system (ENS) dysfunction as a fundamental factor in the GI disturbances observed in DS.

Purpose of the Study:

To investigate the known aspects of ENS dysfunction in Down syndrome.
To review the potential role of chromosome 21 and other genes in the etiology of these ENS anomalies.
To explore the complex interplay between brain development, GI function, and the ENS in the context of DS.

Main Methods:

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Review of existing literature on ENS dysfunction in Down syndrome.
Analysis of histological evidence from human and animal models of DS.
Examination of genetic factors, including chromosome 21, implicated in DS and ENS development.

Main Results:

Histological evidence suggests variations in the ENS micro-anatomy and function in DS.
DS is associated with a higher incidence of specific GI motor disturbances, including esophageal dysmotility and Hirschsprung's disease (HSCR).
Chromosome 21 is implicated as a potential site for genes influencing ENS development and HSCR.

Conclusions:

Developmental disorders of the ENS are likely central to the functional GI problems in Down syndrome.
While trisomy 21 is key, other genes on chromosome 21 may also contribute to ENS anomalies.
Further research is needed to fully elucidate the genetic mechanisms linking chromosome 21, brain development, and ENS dysfunction in DS.