Enteric neuropathy associated to diabetes mellitus

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology and Endocrinology
• Neuroscience
• Diabetology

Background:

• Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a prevalent condition with diverse complications.
• Gastrointestinal (GI) dysmotility and enteric neuropathy are recognized complications of DM.
• These complications stem from damage to the enteric nervous system (ENS).

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current knowledge on GI dysmotility and enteric neuropathy in diabetes mellitus.
• To describe functional and structural alterations in the digestive tract of diabetic patients and animal models.
• To summarize therapeutic and preventive strategies for enteric diabetic neuropathy.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on diabetes mellitus, GI dysmotility, and enteric neuropathy.
• Analysis of functional and structural changes in the digestive tract.
• Summary of therapeutic interventions and preventive strategies.

Main Results:

• Diabetes mellitus significantly impacts GI function and structure.
• Damage to the enteric nervous system (ENS) is a key feature of diabetic GI complications.
• Loss of inhibitory intrinsic gut innervation is a prominent alteration in DM.

Conclusions:

• Diabetic enteric neuropathy involves significant alterations in gut innervation.
• Potential therapeutic strategies include insulin, nerve growth factor, antioxidants, and myenteric neuron transplantation.
• Further research is needed to effectively manage GI complications in diabetes mellitus.