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Murine Model for Selective Transection of Intestinal Autonomic Nerves
Chenglin Xin1, Bihan Liu1, Zhijun Zhao1
1Department of General Surgery, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University; National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases; State Key Lab of Digestive Health; Beijing Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis Research.
Journal of Visualized Experiments : Jove
|July 20, 2026
Summary
Researchers developed a new surgical method to precisely cut sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves in the intestine. This technique allows for detailed study of how these autonomic nerves impact gut function and disease.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Neuroscience
- Surgical Innovation
Background:
- Autonomic nerves, comprising sympathetic and parasympathetic systems, regulate vital physiological functions.
- There is a growing need for precise experimental models to study autonomic innervation of the intestine.
- Existing denervation methods lack specificity, potentially causing extra-intestinal interference.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a detailed surgical protocol for selective transection of intestinal autonomic nerves.
- To establish a reproducible model for investigating the roles of sympathetic and parasympathetic innervation in intestinal physiology and pathology.
- To facilitate the adoption of this technique by researchers studying gut autonomic regulation.
Main Methods:
- A surgical protocol utilizing the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) as an anatomical landmark for nerve identification.
- Selective transection of sympathetic and parasympathetic nerve bundles innervating the intestine.
- Minimally invasive procedure with controllable injury and minimal bleeding, ensuring procedural consistency.
Main Results:
- The protocol enables reliable identification and targeted transection of specific intestinal autonomic nerve bundles.
- The approach achieves localized denervation, potentially reducing interference with extra-intestinal functions.
- The surgical method is adaptable and supports consistent postoperative recovery.
Conclusions:
- This surgical model provides a practical platform for investigating the roles of sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves in intestinal function.
- The technique allows for precise manipulation of autonomic inputs, aiding research in both physiological and disease states.
- The detailed protocol aims to facilitate widespread adoption and advance research in gut neurobiology.
