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[Expression and activity of fatty acid amide hydrolase in the colon in children with slow transit constipation]

Lei Qiao1, Chun-Sheng Chen, Shu-Cheng Zhang

  • 1Department of Pediatric Surgery, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China.

Zhonghua Wei Chang Wai Ke Za Zhi = Chinese Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery
|January 26, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) expression and activity are reduced in the colons of children with slow transit constipation (STC). This suggests FAAH may contribute to the development of STC in pediatric patients.

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Neuroscience
  • Biochemistry

Context:

  • Slow transit constipation (STC) is a functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by infrequent bowel movements and prolonged colonic transit time.
  • The endocannabinoid system, including fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), plays a role in regulating gastrointestinal motility.
  • Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying STC is crucial for developing effective therapeutic strategies.

Purpose:

  • To investigate the expression and activity of fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) in the colon of children diagnosed with slow transit constipation (STC).
  • To determine the potential role of FAAH in the pathogenesis of STC in pediatric patients.

Summary:

  • FAAH protein expression and hydrolysis activity were significantly decreased in the ascending, descending, and sigmoid colon of children with STC compared to controls.
  • Immunohistochemistry and real-time PCR confirmed reduced FAAH expression in myenteric neurons and absorptive cells.
  • Immunofluorescence staining showed altered distribution of FAAH and cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1) in the colons of children with STC.

Impact:

  • The findings indicate that reduced FAAH expression and activity in the colon are associated with STC in children.
  • This study highlights a potential therapeutic target for managing pediatric STC by modulating FAAH levels or activity.
  • Further research into the endocannabinoid system's role in pediatric functional bowel disorders is warranted.
Abstract

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