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Related Concept Videos

Irritable Bowel Syndrome01:23

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

DefinitionIrritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by recurrent combinations of abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, or constipation.Pathophysiology of irritable bowel syndromeIts pathophysiology is multifactorial, involving disturbances in motility, sensory processing, microbial balance, barrier integrity, and gut–brain communication. These mechanisms interact to produce symptoms that vary across IBS subtypes.Altered Motility PatternsDisordered...
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Pharmacological therapies for IBS-C are designed to alleviate abdominal discomfort and enhance bowel function. In patients with IBS-C, fiber supplements may help soften stools and decrease straining, but may also lead to increased gas production and bloating. Osmotic laxatives like milk of magnesia are frequently used to soften stools and increase stool frequency in IBS-C patients. In addition, two drugs approved for use in severe IBS-C adult cases are linaclotide (Linzess) and lubiprostone...
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Drugs Affecting GI Tract Motility: Other Laxatives01:20

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Osmotic or saline laxatives, like magnesium hydroxide or milk of...
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Updated: May 20, 2026

Spatiotemporal Mapping of Motility in Ex Vivo Preparations of the Intestines
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Spatiotemporal Mapping of Motility in Ex Vivo Preparations of the Intestines

Published on: January 27, 2016

[Pathophysiology of slow transit constipation].

Jing-sheng Zhao1, Wei-dong Tong

  • 1Department of Gastric and Colorectal Surgery, The Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China.

Zhonghua Wei Chang Wai Ke Za Zhi = Chinese Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery
|August 2, 2012
PubMed
Summary

Slow transit constipation (STC) involves damage to the enteric nervous system, often worsened by laxative abuse. Further research is needed to understand the underlying mechanisms and develop effective treatments for this condition.

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Last Updated: May 20, 2026

Spatiotemporal Mapping of Motility in Ex Vivo Preparations of the Intestines
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Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Neurogastroenterology
  • Colorectal Surgery

Context:

  • Slow transit constipation (STC) is a prevalent form of chronic idiopathic constipation.
  • Conservative treatments often fail, leading to laxative abuse.
  • Surgical resection of the colon is a last resort for some STC patients.

Purpose:

  • To investigate the unknown pathophysiologic mechanisms of STC.
  • To explore the relationship between neurotransmitter abnormalities and interstitial cells of Cajal in STC.
  • To understand the impact of laxative abuse on the colon in STC patients.

Summary:

  • STC is linked to abnormalities in enteric neurotransmitters (VIP, SP, NOS) and reduced interstitial cells of Cajal.
  • Long-term stimulant laxative use can induce similar colonic changes observed in STC.
  • The exact pathophysiologic mechanisms of STC remain unclear, hindering prevention and treatment.

Impact:

  • Highlights the potential iatrogenic damage from laxative abuse in STC.
  • Identifies key cellular and neurochemical changes associated with STC.
  • Suggests future research directions focusing on the interplay of these abnormalities.