Ca2+ transients in myenteric glial cells during the colonic migrating motor complex in the isolated murine large intestine

摘要

Non-technical summaryA ganglionated neural plexus, the myenteric plexus, within the colon generates a propagating contraction called the colonic migrating motor complex (CMMC) that underlies faecal pellet propulsion. Neurons in the myenteric plexus are surrounded by a network of enteric glia cells (EGCs), which were traditionally thought to be the glue that held the neurons together. Using imaging techniques, we demonstrate that 36% of EGCs respond with prolonged Ca²⁺ transients following their activation by excitatory nerve fibres that generate the CMMC, suggesting that EGCs are innervated and are activated during the CMMC.