Enteric Neurogenesis During Life Span Under Physiological and Pathophysiological Conditions.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Gastroenterology
• Developmental Biology

Background:

• The enteric nervous system (ENS) regulates gastrointestinal functions via complex neuronal circuitry.
• Enteric neuron loss is implicated in various intestinal diseases, compromising gut health.
• Enteric neurogenesis, the generation of new neurons, is critical for ENS maintenance and repair.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in understanding postnatal and adult enteric neurogenesis.
• To discuss factors and mechanisms promoting enteric neurogenesis.
• To explore neurogenesis from transplanted enteric neural progenitor cells.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent scientific literature on enteric neurogenesis.
• Analysis of studies investigating factors influencing adult neurogenesis.
• Summary of research on enteric neural progenitor cell transplantation.

Main Results:

• Enteric glia and progenitor cells can differentiate into neurons postnatally and in adulthood.
• Intestinal microbiota and serotonin signaling play significant roles in adult neurogenesis.
• Transplanted enteric neural progenitor cells can undergo neurogenesis.

Conclusions:

• Postnatal and adult enteric neurogenesis is a vital process for ENS plasticity and function.
• Understanding neurogenesis mechanisms offers therapeutic potential for intestinal diseases.
• Further research into neurogenesis factors and cell transplantation is warranted.