Authors
Panagiotis S Kabouridis, Reena Lasrado, Sarah McCallum, Song Hui Chng, Hugo J Snippert, Hans Clevers, Sven Pettersson, Vassilis Pachnis
Publication date
2015/1/21
Journal
Neuron
Volume
85
Issue
2
Pages
289-295
Publisher
Elsevier
Description
The intrinsic neural networks of the gastrointestinal tract are derived from dedicated neural crest progenitors that colonize the gut during embryogenesis and give rise to enteric neurons and glia. Here, we study how an essential subpopulation of enteric glial cells (EGCs) residing within the intestinal mucosa is integrated into the dynamic microenvironment of the alimentary tract. We find that under normal conditions colonization of the lamina propria by glial cells commences during early postnatal stages but reaches steady-state levels after weaning. By employing genetic lineage tracing, we provide evidence that in adult mice the network of mucosal EGCs is continuously renewed by incoming glial cells originating in the plexi of the gut wall. Finally, we demonstrate that both the initial colonization and homeostasis of glial cells in the intestinal mucosa are regulated by the indigenous gut microbiota.
Total citations
201520162017201820192020202120222023202417343840303149384826
Scholar articles