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Updated: May 9, 2025
07:29
Real-time Analysis of Gut-brain Neural Communication: Cortex wide Calcium Dynamics in Response to Intestinal Glucose Stimulation
Published on: December 29, 2023
557
The Enteric Neuronal Circuitry: A Key Ignored Player in Nutrient Sensing Along the Gut-Brain Axis
Ester Nikolla1, Ava Grandberry2, Destiné Jamerson2
1Department of Physiology, College of Graduate Studies, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, Illinois, USA.
Summary
The enteric nervous system (ENS) plays a key role in nutrient sensing along the gut-brain axis. This review explores the ENS
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Gastroenterology
- Metabolism
Background:
- The gut-brain axis extensively studied for nutrient sensing regulation.
- Vagal neurotransmission and central integration of luminal information are well-understood.
- Roles of the enteric nervous system (ENS) in nutrient sensing remain largely elusive.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current understanding of the ENS' direct and indirect roles in luminal nutrient sensing.
- To highlight physiological, cellular, and molecular mechanisms involved.
- To discuss ENS maladaptations in metabolic diseases like obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on the gut-brain axis and ENS.
- Analysis of recent advances in neuronal subpopulation targeting and imaging techniques.
- Synthesis of physiological, cellular, and molecular data.
Main Results:
- Emerging evidence suggests direct and indirect roles for the ENS in nutrient sensing.
- The ENS integrates luminal signals and influences vagal neurotransmission.
- Specific neuronal subpopulations and imaging techniques are crucial for these discoveries.
Conclusions:
- The ENS is a critical component of nutrient sensing within the gut-brain axis.
- Understanding ENS function is vital for addressing metabolic disorders.
- Further research into ENS mechanisms can reveal new therapeutic targets.
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