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Related Experiment Videos

Neuropeptides in idiopathic chronic constipation (slow transit constipation)

K Sjölund1, S Fasth, R Ekman

  • 1Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital, Lund, Sweden.

Neurogastroenterology and Motility
|November 5, 1997
PubMed
Summary

Slow transit constipation is linked to altered levels of key gut neuropeptides and amines. Studies show increased vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) and galanin in the ascending and transverse colon of patients.

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Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Neurogastroenterology
  • Colorectal Research

Background:

  • Slow transit constipation (STC) is a functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by delayed colonic transit.
  • The enteric nervous system (ENS) and its neuropeptides play a crucial role in regulating colonic motility.
  • Alterations in neuropeptide and amine distribution may underlie the pathophysiology of STC.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the distribution and density of neuropeptides and endocrine cells in the large bowel of patients with STC.
  • To compare these findings with those of normal individuals.
  • To identify potential neurochemical markers associated with STC.

Main Methods:

  • Immunohistochemistry was used to study neuropeptides including CGRP, galanin, glucagon, GRP, metenkephalin, motilin, NPY, PACAP, PYY, serotonin, somatostatin, substance P, and VIP.

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  • Radioimmunoassay was employed to measure tissue concentrations of VIP, substance P, and galanin.
  • Tissue specimens were obtained from 18 patients with STC and compared to normal controls.

    • Main Results:

    • Significantly increased VIP, substance P (SP), and galanin levels were observed in the ascending colon of STC patients.
    • Elevated VIP and galanin concentrations were also noted in the transverse colon.
    • Increased PACAP nerve fibers in the transverse colon's myenteric plexus and smooth muscle, alongside increased PYY and serotonin (5-HT) cells in the ascending colon, were found.

    Conclusions:

    • STC is associated with significant alterations in the neurochemical composition of the colon.
    • Specific neuropeptides like VIP, galanin, and substance P, as well as PYY and 5-HT, show altered distribution and density in STC patients.
    • These neurochemical changes likely contribute to the impaired colonic motility observed in slow transit constipation.