Plasticity of myenteric neurons

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Neuroanatomy
• Histology

Background:

• The digestive system's functions are heavily influenced by the nervous system.
• The enteric nervous system (ENS), a local network within the digestive tract wall, regulates gastrointestinal motility.
• The ENS comprises myenteric and submucosal neuronal networks extending from the esophagus to the anus.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate the presence of neurons within the enteric nervous system.
• To quantify neuronal collections, the number of neurons per collection, and their area.
• To analyze the distribution and morphology of neurons in different parts of the gastrointestinal tract.

Main Methods:

• Tissue samples (1 cm) from all parts of the gastrointestinal tract were obtained from 5 adult cadavers.
• Sections were processed for paraffin embedding, sectioned (5-10 micrometers), and stained with Hematoxylin and Eosin and silver stain.
• Photomicrography and morphometrical analysis using Image Pro Express software were employed.

Main Results:

• Aggregations of 1-31 neurons were identified in the myenteric network, located between muscle layers.
• Neuron clusters varied in size from 10.263-259.660 microm2, appearing oval/round and multipolar.
• Neuronal collections were more numerous in the appendix and ileocecal valve regions.

Conclusions:

• The study successfully demonstrated and quantified neuronal aggregations within the enteric nervous system.
• Morphometrical analysis revealed specific characteristics of neuronal clusters in the gastrointestinal tract wall.
• A higher prevalence of neuronal collections was observed in the appendix and ileocecal valve, suggesting regional functional specializations.