Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 18, 2026
05:11
Differentiation of Enteric Nervous System Lineages from Human Pluripotent Stem Cells
Published on: May 17, 2024
Plasticity and neural stem cells in the enteric nervous system
Karl-Herbert Schäfer1, Chris Van Ginneken, Sjef Copray
1Department of Biotechnology, University of Applied Sciences Kaiserslautern, Amerikastrasse 1, Zweibrücken, Germany. karl-herbert.schaefer@fh-kl.de
Anatomical Record (Hoboken, N.J. : 2007)
|November 28, 2009
Summary
The enteric nervous system (ENS) has adaptable neural stem cells in the gut. These cells offer potential for treating gut disorders and central nervous system conditions.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Gastroenterology
- Stem Cell Biology
Background:
- The enteric nervous system (ENS) is a complex neural network within the gastrointestinal tract.
- The ENS exhibits remarkable adaptability to environmental changes throughout life, including disease and diet.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the role of neural stem cells within the ENS.
- To evaluate the therapeutic potential of ENS-derived stem cells for various medical conditions.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on ENS development and stem cell populations.
- Analysis of the potential applications of neural stem cells from the gut.
Main Results:
- The adult gut harbors neural stem cells, contributing to ENS adaptability.
- These stem cells are derived from neural crest cells.
Conclusions:
- Gut-derived neural stem cells present a promising source for cell-based therapies.
- Potential applications include treating dysganglionosis, neurodegenerative diseases, and central nervous system injuries.
Related Concept Videos
01:01Neuroplasticity
Neuroplasticity reflects the brain's remarkable capacity to adapt and evolve, responding dynamically to learning, experiences, or injury by reorganizing its neural circuitry. This reorganization involves creating new neural connections and refining old ones through a series of biological processes that contribute to the brain's lifelong development and adaptability.
01:27Nerve Supply of the GI Tract
The neuronal supply to the gastrointestinal (GI) tract is essential for regulating various functions, including digestion, absorption, and movement of food. This intricate network of nerves is known as the enteric nervous system (ENS), often referred to as the "second brain" of the body.
The enteric nervous system consists of two major plexuses: the myenteric plexus (Auerbach's plexus) and the submucosal plexus (Meissner's plexus). These plexuses are located within the layers of the GI tract...
The enteric nervous system consists of two major plexuses: the myenteric plexus (Auerbach's plexus) and the submucosal plexus (Meissner's plexus). These plexuses are located within the layers of the GI tract...
01:23Renewal of Intestinal Stem Cells
The intestinal epithelial lining rapidly renews every 4 to 5 days. The renewal is facilitated by intestinal stem cells (ISCs) located at the base of the crypt– a gland located at the bottom of each villus. ISCs divide asymmetrically to form new stem cells and progenitor daughter cells. The daughter cells are called transit-amplifying (TA) cells which move upwards along the crypt and either differentiate into absorptive cells– the enterocytes or secretory cells– including the goblet,...
01:33Adult Stem Cells
Stem cells are undifferentiated cells that divide and produce more stem cells or progenitor cells that differentiate into mature, specialized cell types. All the cells in the body are generated from stem cells in the early embryo, but small populations of stem cells are also present in many adult tissues including the bone marrow, brain, skin, and gut. These adult stem cells typically produce the various cell types found in that tissue—to replace cells that are damaged or to continuously renew...
01:15Neurogenesis and Regeneration of Nervous Tissue
In the CNS, neurogenesis, the birth of new neurons from stem cells, is limited to the hippocampus in adults. In other regions of the brain and spinal cord, neurogenesis is almost non-existent due to inhibitory influences from neuroglia, especially oligodendrocytes, and the absence of growth-stimulating cues. The myelin produced by oligodendrocytes in the CNS inhibits neuronal regeneration. Furthermore, astrocytes proliferate rapidly after neuronal damage, forming scar tissue that physically...
01:05Physiology of Enteric Nervous System and Gut Health
The gastrointestinal tract, responsible for the digestion and absorption of nutrients, is safeguarded by the intestinal barrier, which consists of secretory, physical, and immune components. At the forefront is the secretory barrier, composed of essential elements such as mucus, gut microbiota, and defense proteins. They collaborate to break down food particles, facilitate nutrient absorption, and maintain optimal gut health. These secretory components ensure the smooth functioning of the...