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Updated: Jun 7, 2025

Isolation of Enteric Glial Cells from the Submucosa and Lamina Propria of the Adult Mouse
Published on: August 15, 2018
The Physiology of Enteric Glia.
Jacques Gonzales1, Brian D Gulbransen1
1Department of Physiology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA;
Enteric glia, crucial partners in the gut's nervous system, maintain intestinal homeostasis. Their functions shift in disease, contributing to inflammation, motility issues, and pain.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Gastroenterology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Enteric glia are integral components of the enteric nervous system (ENS) in the gastrointestinal tract.
- These glial cells interact with neurons, immune cells, and the intestinal epithelium to maintain gut homeostasis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the diverse physiological roles of enteric glia.
- To explore the contribution of enteric glia to gastrointestinal health and disease pathophysiology.
Main Methods:
- This is a review article, synthesizing current research and concepts.
- Focuses on recent evidence regarding glial cell functions in the gut.
Main Results:
- Enteric glia regulate the ENS microenvironment, neuronal activity, epithelial functions, and immune responses.
- Glial cells influence key physiological processes like intestinal motility and epithelial barrier integrity.
Conclusions:
- Altered enteric glial phenotype in disease states contributes to intestinal inflammation, dysmotility, pain, neuroplasticity, and tumorigenesis.
- Enteric glia play significant roles in both maintaining gastrointestinal health and driving gut pathophysiology.
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