Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 27, 2025

An In-vitro Preparation of Isolated Enteric Neurons and Glia from the Myenteric Plexus of the Adult Mouse
Published on: August 7, 2013
The human enteric nervous system. Historical and modern advances. Collaboration between science and surgery
David A Wattchow1,2, David Smolilo1,2, Tim Hibberd1
1College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.
Background:
There are considerable advantages and opportunities for surgeons and trainee surgeons in conducting a period of research allied with basic scientists. Such clinicians are well placed to define relevant clinical questions, provide human material (tissue, biopsy and blood) and translate the techniques derived in experimental animals to human subjects.
Methods:
This small review explores research conducted on the nervous system of the intestines, with an emphasis on the translation of findings from animal to human.
Results:
This work shows that new techniques of immunohistochemistry and retrograde tracing, developed in animal tissue, have greatly expanded our knowledge of the structure of the human enteric nervous system.
Conclusions:
Such findings have sparked therapeutic trials for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders in patients.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Physiology of Enteric Nervous System and Gut Health
Enteric Nervous System: Regulation of GI Motor Activity
During periods of fasting, the ENS initiates the migrating myoelectric complex, a...
Neural Regulation
Nerve Supply 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...
Autonomic Nervous System: Overview
Functional Divisions of the Nervous System
The sensory division transmits information from sensory receptors in the body to the CNS. It provides the CNS with knowledge about somatic senses (such as tactile, thermal, pain, and proprioceptive sensations)...

