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Erbersdobler A. The Pathologist's Role in the Diagnosis of Hirschsprung's Disease. Eur J Pediatr Surg 2024. [PMID: 38996443 DOI: 10.1055/s-0044-1788562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/14/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The possibilities, recent advances, and pitfalls in the histopathologic workup of specimens submitted for the diagnosis of Hirschsprung's disease (HSCR) are presented. MATERIALS AND METHODS A literature research was performed in the database PubMed including the years 2000 to 2024. RESULTS The pathologist is involved in the diagnosis of HSCR in three scenarios: (1) the primary diagnosis in a child with the typical clinical symptoms, (2) the intra-operative guidance of surgery in a case where the diagnosis is already established, and (3) the confirmation of the diagnosis and the documentation of the extent of the disease in the resected specimen. Identification of ganglion cells in the enteric neural plexuses excludes HSCR, and the histological confirmation of a complete absence of these ganglion cells is the gold standard for its diagnosis. However, difficulties in the detection of ganglion cells with standard stains and/or a limited amount of tissue in the specimen submitted for diagnosis make supportive histologic stains and techniques, e.g., calretinin immunohistochemistry or acetylcholinesterase histochemistry necessary for an unequivocal diagnosis of HSCR. CONCLUSIONS Improving the diagnostic accuracy of this life-threating disease is an interdisciplinary task. A good communication between pathologist and clinician, as well as mutual knowledge of skills and challenges of the other discipline, is necessary for a successful diagnostic teamwork.
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Bokova E, Prasade N, Rosen JM, Lim IIP, Levitt MA, Rentea RM. State of the Art Bowel Management for Pediatric Colorectal Problems: Spinal Anomalies. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 10:1558. [PMID: 37761519 PMCID: PMC10529947 DOI: 10.3390/children10091558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with spinal abnormalities often struggle with fecal and/or urinary incontinence (up to 87 and 92%, respectively) and require a collaborative approach to bowel management in conjunction. METHODS To define existing approaches and propose state-of-the-art bowel management, a literature search was performed using Medline/PubMed, Google Scholar, Cochrane, and EMBASE databases and focusing on the manuscripts published July 2013 and July 2023. RESULTS Patients with spinal anomalies have impaired innervation of the rectum and anal canal, decreasing the success rate from laxatives and rectal enemas. Thus, transanal irrigations and antegrade flushes are widely utilized in this group of patients. Based on spinal MRI, the potential for bowel control in these children depends on age, type, and lesion level. On referral for bowel management, a contrast study is performed to assess colonic motility and evacuation of stool, followed by a series of abdominal X-rays to define colonic emptying and adjust the regimen. The options for management include laxatives, rectal enemas, transanal irrigations, antegrade flushes, and the creation of a stoma. Approximately 22-71% of patients achieve social continence dependent on the type and level of the lesion. CONCLUSION Patients with spinal anomalies require a thorough assessment for continence potential and stool burden prior to initiation of bowel management. The optimal treatment option is defined according to the patient's age, anatomy, and mobility. The likelihood of independent bowel regimen administration should be discussed with the patients and their caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizaveta Bokova
- Comprehensive Colorectal Center, Department of Surgery, Children’s Mercy Hospital, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA
| | - Ninad Prasade
- Comprehensive Colorectal Center, Department of Surgery, Children’s Mercy Hospital, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA
| | - John M. Rosen
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Children’s Mercy Kansas City, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA
| | - Irene Isabel P. Lim
- Comprehensive Colorectal Center, Department of Surgery, Children’s Mercy Hospital, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA
| | - Marc A. Levitt
- Division of Colorectal and Pelvic Reconstruction, Children’s National Medical Center, Washington, DC 20010, USA
| | - Rebecca M. Rentea
- Comprehensive Colorectal Center, Department of Surgery, Children’s Mercy Hospital, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA
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Wang L, Yuan PQ, Taché Y. Vasculature in the mouse colon and spatial relationships with the enteric nervous system, glia, and immune cells. Front Neuroanat 2023; 17:1130169. [PMID: 37332321 PMCID: PMC10272736 DOI: 10.3389/fnana.2023.1130169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The distribution, morphology, and innervation of vasculature in different mouse colonic segments and layers, as well as spatial relationships of the vasculature with the enteric plexuses, glia, and macrophages are far from being complete. The vessels in the adult mouse colon were stained by the cardiovascular perfusion of wheat germ agglutinin (WGA)-Alexa Fluor 448 and by CD31 immunoreactivity. Nerve fibers, enteric glia, and macrophages were immunostained in the WGA-perfused colon. The blood vessels entered from the mesentery to the submucosa and branched into the capillary networks in the mucosa and muscularis externa. The capillary net formed anastomosed rings at the orifices of mucosa crypts, and the capillary rings surrounded the crypts individually in the proximal colon and more than two crypts in the distal colon. Microvessels in the muscularis externa with myenteric plexus were less dense than in the mucosa and formed loops. In the circular smooth muscle layer, microvessels were distributed in the proximal, but not the distal colon. Capillaries did not enter the enteric ganglia. There were no significant differences in microvascular volume per tissue volume between the proximal and distal colon either in the mucosa or muscularis externa containing the myenteric plexus. PGP9.5-, tyrosine hydroxylase-, and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP)-immunoreactive nerve fibers were distributed along the vessels in the submucosa. In the mucosa, PGP9.5-, CGRP-, and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP)-immunoreactive nerves terminated close to the capillary rings, while cells and processes labeled by S100B and glial fibrillary acidic protein were distributed mainly in the lamina propria and lower portion of the mucosa. Dense Iba1 immunoreactive macrophages were closely adjacent to the mucosal capillary rings. There were a few macrophages, but no glia in apposition to microvessels in the submucosa and muscularis externa. In conclusion, in the mouse colon, (1) the differences in vasculature between the proximal and distal colon were associated with the morphology, but not the microvascular amount per tissue volume in the mucosa and muscle layers; (2) the colonic mucosa contained significantly more microvessels than the muscularis externa; and (3) there were more CGRP and VIP nerve fibers found close to microvessels in the mucosa and submucosa than in the muscle layers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lixin Wang
- Department of Medicine, Vatche and Tamar Manoukian Division of Digestive Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Pu-Qing Yuan
- Department of Medicine, Vatche and Tamar Manoukian Division of Digestive Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Yvette Taché
- Department of Medicine, Vatche and Tamar Manoukian Division of Digestive Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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Franco I. Anatomy, physiology, and evaluation: Bowel, bladder, and sexual disorders. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2023; 196:403-423. [PMID: 37620081 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-323-98817-9.00009-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
Our present understanding of bowel and bladder control has changed dramatically with the introduction of functional imagining technologies such as PET, SPECT, fMRI scanning, and near-infrared spectroscopy of the brain. Urologists tend to see control of urination and defecation as processes that occurred at or below the level of the pons for the most part. In this chapter, we examine the control of storing and emptying of urine and stool from what will be a more neurocentric perspective, integrating the frontal lobes into the process and moving beyond the pons on which most of the literature has focused in the past. Utilizing this approach gives us a better understanding of why there is an overlapping of neuropsychiatric problems in many patients with voiding dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Israel Franco
- Yale School of Medicine, Yale-New Haven Children's Bladder and Continence Program, Yale New Haven Children's Hospital, New Haven, CT, United States.
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Ali MK, Saha S, Milkova N, Liu L, Sharma K, Huizinga JD, Chen JH. Modulation of the autonomic nervous system by one session of spinal low-level laser therapy in patients with chronic colonic motility dysfunction. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:882602. [PMID: 36117615 PMCID: PMC9477245 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.882602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients with a defecation disorder may not evoke a normal defecation reflex, or the reflex may be excessive, as a dysfunction of the spinal autonomic nervous system. Treatment with various forms of lumbar and sacral neuromodulation have shown symptom improvement, but potential changes in autonomic functioning are rarely studied. Here we evaluate the effects on autonomic function of a single session of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) on the lumbar and sacral spine in 41 patients with chronic gastrointestinal motor dysfunction. The LLLT protocol used red LED light at a wavelength of 660 nm for 10 min and infrared LED light at a wavelength of 840 nm for 10 min, followed by infrared laser light at a wavelength of 825 nm for 10 min. Effects on the autonomic nervous system were assessed by measuring heart rate variability (HRV) changes. Respiratory Sinus Arrhythmia (RSA) and Root Mean Square of Successive Differences (RMSSD) were used to quantify parasympathetic reactivity; the Baevsky’s Stress Index (SI) reflected sympathetic activity while the ratios SI/RSA and SI/RMSSD were used to show shifts in autonomic dominance. The results indicate that lumbar and sacral neuromodulation using light arrays reduced, whereas stimulation by the laser probes significantly increased parasympathetic activity. The light arrays increased whereas the laser probes significantly decreased sympathetic activity (SI). The entire protocol shifted the autonomic balance toward parasympathetic activity. The comparison of actual vs. sham neuromodulation proved that the change in HRV parameters was due to actual light stimulation and not due to the arrays and probe touching the skin. In conclusion, a single session of LLLT markedly affects autonomic nervous system activity reflected in changes in HRV which is only possible by generating activity in the spinal autonomic nerves. These results warrant a study into the effects of LLLT on restoring autonomic dysfunction in chronic refractory colonic motility disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Khawar Ali
- Faculty of Engineering, School of Biomedical Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Farncombe Family Digestive Health Research Institute, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Shrayasee Saha
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Farncombe Family Digestive Health Research Institute, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Natalija Milkova
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Farncombe Family Digestive Health Research Institute, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Lijun Liu
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Farncombe Family Digestive Health Research Institute, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Kartik Sharma
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Farncombe Family Digestive Health Research Institute, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Jan D. Huizinga
- Faculty of Engineering, School of Biomedical Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Farncombe Family Digestive Health Research Institute, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- *Correspondence: Jan D. Huizinga,
| | - Ji-Hong Chen
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Farncombe Family Digestive Health Research Institute, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- *Correspondence: Jan D. Huizinga,
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Bharucha AE, Knowles CH, Mack I, Malcolm A, Oblizajek N, Rao S, Scott SM, Shin A, Enck P. Faecal incontinence in adults. Nat Rev Dis Primers 2022; 8:53. [PMID: 35948559 DOI: 10.1038/s41572-022-00381-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Faecal incontinence, which is defined by the unintentional loss of solid or liquid stool, has a worldwide prevalence of ≤7% in community-dwelling adults and can markedly impair quality of life. Nonetheless, many patients might not volunteer the symptom owing to embarrassment. Bowel disturbances, particularly diarrhoea, anal sphincter trauma (obstetrical injury or previous surgery), rectal urgency and burden of chronic illness are the main risk factors for faecal incontinence; others include neurological disorders, inflammatory bowel disease and pelvic floor anatomical disturbances. Faecal incontinence is classified by its type (urge, passive or combined), aetiology (anorectal disturbance, bowel symptoms or both) and severity, which is derived from the frequency, volume, consistency and nature (urge or passive) of stool leakage. Guided by the clinical features, diagnostic tests and therapies are implemented stepwise. When simple measures (for example, bowel modifiers such as fibre supplements, laxatives and anti-diarrhoeal agents) fail, anorectal manometry and other tests (endoanal imaging, defecography, rectal compliance and sensation, and anal neurophysiological tests) are performed as necessary. Non-surgical options (diet and lifestyle modification, behavioural measures, including biofeedback therapy, pharmacotherapy for constipation or diarrhoea, and anal or vaginal barrier devices) are often effective, especially in patients with mild faecal incontinence. Thereafter, perianal bulking agents, sacral neuromodulation and other surgeries may be considered when necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adil E Bharucha
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.
| | - Charles H Knowles
- Blizard Institute, Centre for Neuroscience, Surgery & Trauma, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Isabelle Mack
- University Hospital, Department of Psychosomatic Medicine, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Allison Malcolm
- Department of Gastroenterology, Royal North Shore Hospital and University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Nicholas Oblizajek
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Satish Rao
- Department of Gastroenterology, University of Georgia, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - S Mark Scott
- Blizard Institute, Centre for Neuroscience, Surgery & Trauma, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Andrea Shin
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Paul Enck
- University Hospital, Department of Psychosomatic Medicine, Tübingen, Germany.
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Verkuijl SJ, Trzpis M, Broens PMA. The anorectal defaecation reflex: a prospective intervention study. Colorectal Dis 2022; 24:845-853. [PMID: 35194918 PMCID: PMC9541108 DOI: 10.1111/codi.16101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Revised: 01/30/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
AIM Our hypothesis is that there may be a neural pathway with sensory afferent neurons in the anal canal that leads to rectal contraction to assist defaecation. We aimed to compare rectal motility between healthy participants with or without anal anaesthesia. METHOD This prospective intervention study consisted of two test sessions: a baseline session followed by an identical second session. During each session we performed the anal electrosensitivity test, the rectoanal inhibitory reflex test and rapid phasic barostat distensions. Prior to the second session, participants were randomly assigned to receive either a local anal anaesthetic or a placebo. RESULTS We included 23 healthy participants aged 21.1 ± 0.5 years, 13 of whom received an anal anaesthetic and 10 a placebo. All participants showed a transient rectal contraction during the first test session, which decreased significantly after anal anaesthesia (18.6 ml vs. 4.9 ml, p = 0.019). The maximum rectal contraction was comparable to the baseline results in the placebo group. Furthermore, the electrosensitivity at the highest centimetre of the anal canal correlated with the maximum rectal contraction (r = -0.452, p = 0.045). CONCLUSION All healthy study participants display an involuntary, reproducible rectal reflex contraction that appears to be innervated by afferent nerves in the proximal anal canal. The rectal reflex contraction appears to play a role in defaecation and we therefore refer to this phenomenon as the anorectal defaecation reflex. Knowledge of the anorectal defaecation reflex may have consequences for the diagnostics and treatment of constipation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanne J. Verkuijl
- Department of SurgeryAnorectal Physiology LaboratoryUniversity of GroningenUniversity Medical Center GroningenGroningenThe Netherlands,Department of SurgeryDivision of Paediatric SurgeryUniversity of GroningenUniversity Medical Center GroningenGroningenThe Netherlands
| | - Monika Trzpis
- Department of SurgeryAnorectal Physiology LaboratoryUniversity of GroningenUniversity Medical Center GroningenGroningenThe Netherlands
| | - Paul M. A. Broens
- Department of SurgeryAnorectal Physiology LaboratoryUniversity of GroningenUniversity Medical Center GroningenGroningenThe Netherlands,Department of SurgeryDivision of Paediatric SurgeryUniversity of GroningenUniversity Medical Center GroningenGroningenThe Netherlands
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8
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Xiao Y, Xu F, Lin L, Chen JD. Transcutaneous Electrical Acustimulation Improves Constipation by Enhancing Rectal Sensation in Patients With Functional Constipation and Lack of Rectal Sensation. Clin Transl Gastroenterol 2022; 13:e00485. [PMID: 35347091 PMCID: PMC9132522 DOI: 10.14309/ctg.0000000000000485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Reduced rectal sensation is involved in the pathophysiology of constipation. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of transcutaneous electrical acustimulation (TEA) at acupuncture point ST36 on constipation and rectal sensation as well as autonomic functions in patients with constipation and reduced rectal sensation. METHODS In an acute study, anorectal motility and sensation tests were performed in constipation patients (N = 53) who were treated with TEA at ST36 or sham points. In a chronic study, patients (N = 18) underwent 2 weeks of TEA or sham-TEA in a crossover design. RESULTS Chronic TEA increased spontaneous bowel movements (3.72 vs 2.00 per week with sham-TEA, P < 0.0001) and significantly reduced constipation symptoms and increased quality of life in comparison with sham-TEA (P < 0.05). Acute TEA reduced the sensation threshold in response to rectal distention for the urge of defecation and maximum tolerable volume (P < 0.05, vs baseline); chronic TEA reduced the sensation thresholds for first sensation and desire of defecation, and decreased the threshold volume to an elicit rectal anal inhibitory reflex (P < 0.05). Both acute and chronic TEA increased parasympathetic activity (P < 0.05). DISCUSSION TEA at ST36 improves chronic constipation by enhancing rectal sensation possibly mediated by the reinforcement of parasympathetic activity in patients with functional constipation and reported lack/absence of rectal sensation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye Xiao
- Division of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Division of Gastroenterology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Feng Xu
- Division of Gastroenterology, Yinzhou Hospital Affiliated to Medical School of Ningbo, University, Ningbo, China
| | - Lin Lin
- Division of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jiande D.Z. Chen
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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Barbier A, Chen JH, Huizinga JD. Autism Spectrum Disorder in Children Is Not Associated With Abnormal Autonomic Nervous System Function: Hypothesis and Theory. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:830234. [PMID: 35370829 PMCID: PMC8964964 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.830234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The quest to understand the pathophysiology of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has led to extensive literature that purports to provide evidence for autonomic dysfunction based on heart rate and heart rate variability (HRV), in particular respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA), a measure of parasympathetic functioning. Many studies conclude that autism is associated with vagal withdrawal and sympathetic hyperactivation based on HRV and electrodermal analyses. We will argue that a critical analysis of the data leads to the hypothesis that autonomic nervous system dysfunction is not a dominant feature of autism. Most children with ASD have normal parasympathetic baseline values and normal autonomic responses to social stimuli. The existing HRV and electrodermal data cannot lead to the conclusion of an over-excitation of the sympathetic nervous system. A small subgroup of ASD children in experimental settings has relatively low RSA values and relatively high heart rates. The data suggest that this is likely associated with a relatively high level of anxiety during study conditions, associated with co-morbidities such as constipation, or due to the use of psychoactive medication. Many studies interpret their data to conform with a preferred hypothesis of autonomic dysfunction as a trait of autism, related to the polyvagal theory, but the HRV evidence is to the contrary. HRV analysis may identify children with ASD having autonomic dysfunction due to co-morbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Barbier
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Ji-Hong Chen
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Jan D Huizinga
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
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10
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Ng KS, Gladman MA. LARS: A review of therapeutic options and their efficacy. SEMINARS IN COLON AND RECTAL SURGERY 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.scrs.2021.100849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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11
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Understanding the physiology of human defaecation and disorders of continence and evacuation. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2021; 18:751-769. [PMID: 34373626 DOI: 10.1038/s41575-021-00487-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The act of defaecation, although a ubiquitous human experience, requires the coordinated actions of the anorectum and colon, pelvic floor musculature, and the enteric, peripheral and central nervous systems. Defaecation is best appreciated through the description of four phases, which are, temporally and physiologically, reasonably discrete. However, given the complexity of this process, it is unsurprising that disorders of defaecation are both common and problematic; almost everyone will experience constipation at some time in their life and many will develop faecal incontinence. A detailed understanding of the normal physiology of defaecation and continence is critical to inform management of disorders of defaecation. During the past decade, there have been major advances in the investigative tools used to assess colonic and anorectal function. This Review details the current understanding of defaecation and continence. This includes an overview of the relevant anatomy and physiology, a description of the four phases of defaecation, and factors influencing defaecation (demographics, stool frequency/consistency, psychobehavioural factors, posture, circadian rhythm, dietary intake and medications). A summary of the known pathophysiology of defaecation disorders including constipation, faecal incontinence and irritable bowel syndrome is also included, as well as considerations for further research in this field.
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12
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Scott SM, Simrén M, Farmer AD, Dinning PG, Carrington EV, Benninga MA, Burgell RE, Dimidi E, Fikree A, Ford AC, Fox M, Hoad CL, Knowles CH, Krogh K, Nugent K, Remes-Troche JM, Whelan K, Corsetti M. Chronic constipation in adults: Contemporary perspectives and clinical challenges. 1: Epidemiology, diagnosis, clinical associations, pathophysiology and investigation. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2021; 33:e14050. [PMID: 33263938 DOI: 10.1111/nmo.14050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic constipation is a prevalent disorder that affects patients' quality of life and consumes resources in healthcare systems worldwide. In clinical practice, it is still considered a challenge as clinicians frequently are unsure as to which treatments to use and when. Over a decade ago, a Neurogastroenterology & Motility journal supplement devoted to the investigation and management of constipation was published (2009; 21 (Suppl.2)). This included seven articles, disseminating all themes covered during a preceding 2-day meeting held in London, entitled "Current perspectives in chronic constipation: a scientific and clinical symposium." In October 2018, the 3rd London Masterclass, entitled "Contemporary management of constipation" was held, again over 2 days. All faculty members were invited to author two new review articles, which represent a collective synthesis of talks presented and discussions held during this meeting. PURPOSE This article represents the first of these reviews, addressing epidemiology, diagnosis, clinical associations, pathophysiology, and investigation. Clearly, not all aspects of the condition can be covered in adequate detail; hence, there is a focus on particular "hot topics" and themes that are of contemporary interest. The second review addresses management of chronic constipation, covering behavioral, conservative, medical, and surgical therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Mark Scott
- Centre for Neuroscience, Surgery & Trauma, Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Magnus Simrén
- Department of Internal Medicine & Clinical Nutrition, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Center for Functional GI and Motility Disorders, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Adam D Farmer
- Centre for Neuroscience, Surgery & Trauma, Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK.,Institute of Applied Clinical Science, University of Keele, Keele, UK
| | - Philip G Dinning
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders Medical Centre, Flinders University & Discipline of Gastroenterology, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Emma V Carrington
- Centre for Neuroscience, Surgery & Trauma, Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK.,Surgical Professorial Unit, St Vincent's University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Marc A Benninga
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Rebecca E Burgell
- Department of Gastroenterology, Alfred Health and Monash University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Eirini Dimidi
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Asma Fikree
- Centre for Neuroscience, Surgery & Trauma, Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK.,Gastroenterology Department, Royal London Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Alexander C Ford
- Leeds Institute of Medical Research at St. James's, Leeds Gastroenterology Institute, Leeds Teaching Hospitals Trust, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Mark Fox
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland.,Digestive Function: Basel, Laboratory and Clinic for Motility Disorders and Functional Gastrointestinal Diseases, Centre for Integrative Gastroenterology, Klinik Arlesheim, Arlesheim, Switzerland
| | - Caroline L Hoad
- Sir Peter Mansfield Imaging Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.,NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre (BRC), Hospitals NHS Trust and the University of Nottingham, Nottingham University, Nottingham, UK
| | - Charles H Knowles
- Centre for Neuroscience, Surgery & Trauma, Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Klaus Krogh
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Karen Nugent
- Department of Surgery, Southampton University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Jose Maria Remes-Troche
- Digestive Physiology and Motility Lab, Medical Biological Research Institute, Universidad Veracruzana, Veracruz, Mexico
| | - Kevin Whelan
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Maura Corsetti
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre (BRC), Hospitals NHS Trust and the University of Nottingham, Nottingham University, Nottingham, UK.,Nottingham Digestive Diseases Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
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13
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Mosiello G, Safder S, Marshall D, Rolle U, Benninga MA. Neurogenic Bowel Dysfunction in Children and Adolescents. J Clin Med 2021; 10:1669. [PMID: 33924675 PMCID: PMC8069792 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10081669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurogenic/neuropathic bowel dysfunction (NBD) is common in children who are affected by congenital and acquired neurological disease, and negatively impacts quality of life. In the past, NBD received less attention than neurogenic bladder, generally being considered only in spina bifida (the most common cause of pediatric NBD). Many methods of conservative and medical management of NBD are reported, including relatively recently Transanal Irrigation (TAI). Based on the literature and personal experience, an expert group (pediatric urologists/surgeons/gastroenterologists with specific experience in NBD) focused on NBD in children and adolescents. A statement document was created using a modified Delphi method. The range of causes of pediatric NBD are discussed in this paper. The various therapeutic approaches are presented to improve clinical management. The population of children and adolescents with NBD is increasing, due both to the higher survival rate and better diagnosis. While NBD is relatively predictable in producing either constipation or fecal incontinence, or both, its various effects on each patient will depend on a wide range of underlying causes and accompanying comorbidities. For this reason, management of NBD should be tailored individually with a combined multidisciplinary therapy appropriate for the status of the affected child and caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Mosiello
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, Bambino Gesù Pediatric and Research Hospital, 00165 Rome, Italy
| | - Shaista Safder
- College of Medicine, Center for Digestive, Health and Nutrition, Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, Orlando, FL 32806, USA;
| | - David Marshall
- Department of Pediatric Surgery and Pediatric Urology, Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children, Belfast BT97AB, UK;
| | - Udo Rolle
- Department of Pediatric Surgery and Pediatric Urology, Goethe-University Frankfurt, 60596 Frankfurt, Germany;
| | - Marc A. Benninga
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Emma Children’s Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
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14
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Fung C, Vanden Berghe P. Functional circuits and signal processing in the enteric nervous system. Cell Mol Life Sci 2020; 77:4505-4522. [PMID: 32424438 PMCID: PMC7599184 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-020-03543-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Revised: 04/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The enteric nervous system (ENS) is an extensive network comprising millions of neurons and glial cells contained within the wall of the gastrointestinal tract. The major functions of the ENS that have been most studied include the regulation of local gut motility, secretion, and blood flow. Other areas that have been gaining increased attention include its interaction with the immune system, with the gut microbiota and its involvement in the gut-brain axis, and neuro-epithelial interactions. Thus, the enteric circuitry plays a central role in intestinal homeostasis, and this becomes particularly evident when there are faults in its wiring such as in neurodevelopmental or neurodegenerative disorders. In this review, we first focus on the current knowledge on the cellular composition of enteric circuits. We then further discuss how enteric circuits detect and process external information, how these signals may be modulated by physiological and pathophysiological factors, and finally, how outputs are generated for integrated gut function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Candice Fung
- Laboratory for Enteric NeuroScience (LENS), Translational Research Center for Gastrointestinal Disorders (TARGID), University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Pieter Vanden Berghe
- Laboratory for Enteric NeuroScience (LENS), Translational Research Center for Gastrointestinal Disorders (TARGID), University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
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15
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Nocera F, Angehrn F, von Flüe M, Steinemann DC. Optimising functional outcomes in rectal cancer surgery. Langenbecks Arch Surg 2020; 406:233-250. [PMID: 32712705 PMCID: PMC7936967 DOI: 10.1007/s00423-020-01937-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Background By improved surgical technique such as total mesorectal excision (TME), multimodal treatment and advances in imaging survival and an increased rate of sphincter preservation have been achieved in rectal cancer surgery. Minimal-invasive approaches such as laparoscopic, robotic and transanal-TME (ta-TME) enhance recovery after surgery. Nevertheless, disorders of bowel, anorectal and urogenital function are still common and need attention. Purpose This review aims at exploring the causes of dysfunction after anterior resection (AR) and the accordingly preventive strategies. Furthermore, the indication for low AR in the light of functional outcome is discussed. The last therapeutic strategies to deal with bowel, anorectal, and urogenital disorders are depicted. Conclusion Functional disorders after rectal cancer surgery are frequent and underestimated. More evidence is needed to define an indication for non-operative management or local excision as alternatives to AR. The decision for restorative resection should be made in consideration of the relevant risk factors for dysfunction. In the case of restoration, a side-to-end anastomosis should be the preferred anastomotic technique. Further high-evidence clinical studies are required to clarify the benefit of intraoperative neuromonitoring. While the function of ta-TME seems not to be superior to laparoscopy, case-control studies suggest the benefits of robotic TME mainly in terms of preservation of the urogenital function. Low AR syndrome is treated by stool regulation, pelvic floor therapy, and transanal irrigation. There is good evidence for sacral nerve modulation for incontinence after low AR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Nocera
- Clarunis, Department of Visceral Surgery, University Centre for Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease, St Clara Hospital and University Hospital, Kleinriehenstrasse 30, 4058, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Fiorenzo Angehrn
- Clarunis, Department of Visceral Surgery, University Centre for Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease, St Clara Hospital and University Hospital, Kleinriehenstrasse 30, 4058, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Markus von Flüe
- Clarunis, Department of Visceral Surgery, University Centre for Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease, St Clara Hospital and University Hospital, Kleinriehenstrasse 30, 4058, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Daniel C Steinemann
- Clarunis, Department of Visceral Surgery, University Centre for Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease, St Clara Hospital and University Hospital, Kleinriehenstrasse 30, 4058, Basel, Switzerland.
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Basel, Spitalstrasse 23, 4031, Basel, Switzerland.
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16
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Milkova N, Parsons SP, Ratcliffe E, Huizinga JD, Chen JH. On the nature of high-amplitude propagating pressure waves in the human colon. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2020; 318:G646-G660. [PMID: 32068445 PMCID: PMC7191456 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00386.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Characterization of high-amplitude propagating pressure waves (HAPWs or HAPCs) plays a key role in diagnosis of colon dysmotility using any type of colonic manometry. With the introduction of high-resolution manometry, more insight is gained into this most prominent propulsive motor pattern. Here, we use a water-perfused catheter with 84 sensors with intervals between measuring points of 1 cm throughout the colon, for 6-8 h, in 19 healthy subjects. The catheter contained a balloon to evoke distention. We explored as stimuli a meal, balloon distention, oral prucalopride, and bisacodyl injection, with a goal to optimally evoke HAPWs. We developed a quantitative measure of HAPW activity, the "HAPW Index." Our protocol elicited 290 HAPWs. 21% of HAPWs were confined to the proximal colon with an average amplitude of 75.3 ± 3.3 mmHg and an average HAPW Index of 440 ± 58 mmHg·m·s. 29% of HAPWs started in the proximal colon and ended in the transverse or descending colon, with an average amplitude of 87.9 ± 3.1 mmHg and an average HAPW Index of 3,344 ± 356 mmHg·m·s. Forty-nine percent of HAPWs started and ended in the transverse or descending colon with an average amplitude of 109.3 ± 3.3 mmHg and an average HAPW Index of 2,071 ± 195 mmHg·m·s. HAPWs with and without simultaneous pressure waves (SPWs) initiated the colo-anal reflex, often abolishing 100% of anal sphincter pressure. Rectal bisacodyl and proximal balloon distention were the most optimal stimuli to evoke HAPWs. These measures now allow for a confident diagnosis of abnormal motility in patients with colonic motor dysfunction.NEW & NOTEWORTHY High-amplitude propagating pressure waves (HAPWs) were characterized using 84 sensors throughout the entire colon in healthy subjects, taking note of site of origin, site of termination, amplitude, and velocity, and to identify optimal stimuli to evoke HAPWs. Three categories of HAPWs were identified, including the associated colo-anal reflex. Proximal balloon distention and rectal bisacodyl were recognized as reliable stimuli for evoking HAPWs, and a HAPW Index was devised to quantify this essential colonic motor pattern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalija Milkova
- McMaster University, Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Farncombe Family Digestive Health Research Institute, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sean P. Parsons
- McMaster University, Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Farncombe Family Digestive Health Research Institute, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Elyanne Ratcliffe
- McMaster University, Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Farncombe Family Digestive Health Research Institute, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jan D. Huizinga
- McMaster University, Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Farncombe Family Digestive Health Research Institute, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ji-Hong Chen
- McMaster University, Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Farncombe Family Digestive Health Research Institute, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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17
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Farkas NG, Welman TJP, Ross T, Brown S, Smith JJ, Pawa N. Unusual causes of large bowel obstruction. Curr Probl Surg 2018; 56:49-90. [PMID: 30777150 DOI: 10.1067/j.cpsurg.2018.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2018] [Accepted: 12/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas G Farkas
- West Middlesex University Hospital, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.
| | - Ted Joseph P Welman
- West Middlesex University Hospital, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Talisa Ross
- West Middlesex University Hospital, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Sarah Brown
- West Middlesex University Hospital, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Jason J Smith
- West Middlesex University Hospital, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Nikhil Pawa
- West Middlesex University Hospital, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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18
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Fröhlich K, Linker RA, Engelhorn T, Dörfler A, Lee DH, Huhn K, Schwab S, Hilz MJ, Seifert F, Winder K. Brain MRI Lesions are Related to Bowel Incontinence in Multiple Sclerosis. J Neuroimaging 2018; 29:211-217. [PMID: 30537408 DOI: 10.1111/jon.12589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2018] [Revised: 11/21/2018] [Accepted: 11/30/2018] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Bowel incontinence in multiple sclerosis might be associated with specific lesion sites. This study intended to determine associations between bowel incontinence and cerebral multiple sclerosis lesions using a voxel-wise lesion symptom mapping analysis. METHODS We conducted a retrospective study of multiple sclerosis patients with self-reported bowel incontinence and matched controls. Lesions were manually outlined on T2-weighted MRI scans and transformed into stereotaxic space. We performed a voxel-wise subtraction analysis subtracting the lesion overlap of patients without from patients with bowel incontinence. Finally, we compared the absence or presence of bowel incontinence between patients with and without lesions in a given voxel using the Liebermeister test. RESULTS A total of 51 patients were included in the study. The analysis yielded associations between bowel incontinence and lesions in the supramarginal gyrus of the left secondary somatosensory cortex and another lesion cluster in the right parahippocampal gyrus and amygdala. CONCLUSIONS Our analysis indicates associations between bowel incontinence and lesions in the left supramarginal gyral area contributing to integrating anorectal-visceral sensation and in the right parahippocampal gyrus and amygdala contributing to generating visceral autonomic arousal states. Moreover, our results suggest left hemispheric dominance of sensory visceral integration, while limbic areas of the right hemisphere seem to contribute to the autonomic component of the defecation process. A limitation of our study is the retrospective evaluation of the bowel incontinence status based on medical records. Further research should evaluate the bowel incontinence status in multiple sclerosis patients prospectively to overcome the limitations of the current study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kilian Fröhlich
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Ralf A Linker
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Tobias Engelhorn
- Department of Neuroradiology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Arnd Dörfler
- Department of Neuroradiology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - De-Hyung Lee
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Konstantin Huhn
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Stefan Schwab
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Max J Hilz
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Frank Seifert
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Klemens Winder
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
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19
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Ng KS, Brookes SJ, Montes-Adrian NA, Mahns DA, Gladman MA. Electrophysiological characterization of human rectal afferents. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2016; 311:G1047-G1055. [PMID: 27789454 PMCID: PMC5298880 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00153.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2016] [Accepted: 10/17/2016] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
It is presumed that extrinsic afferent nerves link the rectum to the central nervous system. However, the anatomical/functional existence of such nerves has never previously been demonstrated in humans. Therefore, we aimed to identify and make electrophysiological recordings in vitro from extrinsic afferents, comparing human rectum to colon. Sections of normal rectum and colon were procured from anterior resection and right hemicolectomy specimens, respectively. Sections were pinned and extrinsic nerves dissected. Extracellular visceral afferent nerve activity was recorded. Neuronal responses to chemical [capsaicin and "inflammatory soup" (IS)] and mechanical (Von Frey probing) stimuli were recorded and quantified as peak firing rate (range) in 1-s intervals. Twenty-eight separate nerve trunks from eight rectums were studied. Of these, spontaneous multiunit afferent activity was recorded in 24 nerves. Peak firing rates increased significantly following capsaicin [median 6 (range 3-25) spikes/s vs. 2 (1-4), P < 0.001] and IS [median 5 (range 2-18) spikes/s vs. 2 (1-4), P < 0.001]. Mechanosensitive "hot spots" were identified in 16 nerves [median threshold 2.0 g (range 1.4-6.0 g)]. In eight of these, the threshold decreased after IS [1.0 g (0.4-1.4 g)]. By comparison, spontaneous activity was recorded in only 3/30 nerves studied from 10 colons, and only one hot spot (threshold 60 g) was identified. This study confirms the anatomical/functional existence of extrinsic rectal afferent nerves and characterizes their chemo- and mechanosensitivity for the first time in humans. They have different electrophysiological properties to colonic afferents and warrant further investigation in disease states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kheng-Seong Ng
- 1Academic Colorectal Unit, Sydney Medical School, Concord, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; ,2Enteric Neuroscience and Gastrointestinal Research Group, ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia;
| | - Simon J. Brookes
- 3Discipline of Human Physiology, FMST, School of Medicine, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia; and
| | - Noemi A. Montes-Adrian
- 2Enteric Neuroscience and Gastrointestinal Research Group, ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia;
| | - David A. Mahns
- 4Department of Integrative Physiology, School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Marc A. Gladman
- 1Academic Colorectal Unit, Sydney Medical School, Concord, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; ,2Enteric Neuroscience and Gastrointestinal Research Group, ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia;
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20
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Nemoto D, Hayashi Y, Utano K, Isohata N, Endo S, Lefor AK, Yamamoto H, Togashi K. A novel retrieval technique for large colorectal tumors resected by endoscopic submucosal dissection: tumor extraction by defecation. Endosc Int Open 2016; 4:E93-5. [PMID: 26793792 PMCID: PMC4713179 DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-107902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) has been developed to facilitate en bloc resection of large lesions. However, it is laborious to retrieve the large colorectal specimens. We propose a novel retrieval technique using a Valsalva maneuver, known as Tumor Extraction by Defecation (TED). CASE SERIES A total of nine lesions (median size 88 mm, maximum 225 mm; proximal colon three, rectum six) that could not be easily retrieved using net forceps were subsequently removed by TED. The rectum was filled with water through the colonoscope. The patient then strained to evacuate the specimen, facilitated by an almost straight anorectal angle. All specimens were retrieved without fragmentation, within minutes. Histology was assessed appropriately, including an adenoma in two and mucosal cancer in seven. All cut margins were verified to be negative. No adverse events occurred. CONCLUSIONS TED is a promising technique for retrieving large colorectal specimens after ESD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daiki Nemoto
- Department of Coloproctology, Aizu Medical Center, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima 969-3492 Japan
| | - Yoshikazu Hayashi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi 329-0498 Japan
| | - Kenichi Utano
- Department of Coloproctology, Aizu Medical Center, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima 969-3492 Japan
| | - Noriyuki Isohata
- Department of Coloproctology, Aizu Medical Center, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima 969-3492 Japan
| | - Shungo Endo
- Department of Coloproctology, Aizu Medical Center, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima 969-3492 Japan
| | - Alan K Lefor
- Department of Surgery, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi 329-0498 Japan
| | - Hironori Yamamoto
- Department of Gastroenterology, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi 329-0498 Japan
| | - Kazutomo Togashi
- Department of Coloproctology, Aizu Medical Center, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima 969-3492 Japan,Corresponding author Kazutomo Togashi, MD, PhD Department of Coloproctology,Aizu Medical CenterFukushima Medical UniversityFukushima-ken, 969-3492Japan
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21
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Haas S, Brock C, Krogh K, Gram M, Lundby L, Drewes AM, Laurberg S. Abnormal neuronal response to rectal and anal stimuli in patients with idiopathic fecal incontinence. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2015; 27:954-62. [PMID: 25903483 DOI: 10.1111/nmo.12567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2014] [Accepted: 03/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The pathophysiology behind idiopathic fecal incontinence (IFI) is poorly understood. We hypothesized abnormal sensory pathways along the brain-gut axis as a key player in this disease, reflected in cortical evoked potentials (CEP) from mechanical stimuli of the rectum and the anal canal. METHODS CEPs were recorded during repeated rapid balloon distensions of the rectum and anal canal in 19 women with IFI (mean age: 60 ± 14, mean Wexner score: 14.7 ± 2.9) and in 19 healthy women (mean age: 56 ± 11, mean Wexner score: 1.1 ± 1.3). Latencies, amplitudes and topography of CEPs elicited by rectal distension were compared between the groups. CEPs from both rectal and anal distensions were examined using spectral band analysis of single sweeps determining the relative amplitude of five spectral bands as a proxy of neuronal processing. KEY RESULTS Compared to controls IFI patients had prolonged latency of CEPs from rectal distension by up to 27% (p < 0.001) while amplitudes and topography were similar (all p > 0.7 and all p > 0.23). Spectral analysis of CEPs from rectal distensions showed no difference (all p > 0.1) between groups. However, analysis of CEPs following distension of the anal canal resulted in abnormally low activity in beta (8-12 Hz; p < 0.001) band and high activity in the gamma (32-70 Hz; p = 0.04) band in patients. CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES IFI seems to be associated with impaired ano-rectal sensory functions in both the afferent fibers to the brain and the cortical processing of anal sensory pathways. This may play a central role for the pathogenesis of IFI.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Haas
- Department of Surgery P, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - C Brock
- Mech-Sense, Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark.,Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - K Krogh
- Neurogastroenterology Unit, Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - M Gram
- Mech-Sense, Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - L Lundby
- Department of Surgery P, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - A M Drewes
- Mech-Sense, Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark.,Center for Sensory-Motor Interaction (SMI), Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - S Laurberg
- Department of Surgery P, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
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22
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The enteric nervous system and gastrointestinal innervation: integrated local and central control. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2014; 817:39-71. [PMID: 24997029 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-0897-4_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 480] [Impact Index Per Article: 48.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The digestive system is innervated through its connections with the central nervous system (CNS) and by the enteric nervous system (ENS) within the wall of the gastrointestinal tract. The ENS works in concert with CNS reflex and command centers and with neural pathways that pass through sympathetic ganglia to control digestive function. There is bidirectional information flow between the ENS and CNS and between the ENS and sympathetic prevertebral ganglia.The ENS in human contains 200-600 million neurons, distributed in many thousands of small ganglia, the great majority of which are found in two plexuses, the myenteric and submucosal plexuses. The myenteric plexus forms a continuous network that extends from the upper esophagus to the internal anal sphincter. Submucosal ganglia and connecting fiber bundles form plexuses in the small and large intestines, but not in the stomach and esophagus. The connections between the ENS and CNS are carried by the vagus and pelvic nerves and sympathetic pathways. Neurons also project from the ENS to prevertebral ganglia, the gallbladder, pancreas and trachea.The relative roles of the ENS and CNS differ considerably along the digestive tract. Movements of the striated muscle esophagus are determined by neural pattern generators in the CNS. Likewise the CNS has a major role in monitoring the state of the stomach and, in turn, controlling its contractile activity and acid secretion, through vago-vagal reflexes. In contrast, the ENS in the small intestine and colon contains full reflex circuits, including sensory neurons, interneurons and several classes of motor neuron, through which muscle activity, transmucosal fluid fluxes, local blood flow and other functions are controlled. The CNS has control of defecation, via the defecation centers in the lumbosacral spinal cord. The importance of the ENS is emphasized by the life-threatening effects of some ENS neuropathies. By contrast, removal of vagal or sympathetic connections with the gastrointestinal tract has minor effects on GI function. Voluntary control of defecation is exerted through pelvic connections, but cutting these connections is not life-threatening and other functions are little affected.
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23
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Brumovsky PR, La JH, Gebhart GF. Distribution across tissue layers of extrinsic nerves innervating the mouse colorectum - an in vitro anterograde tracing study. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2014; 26:1494-507. [PMID: 25185752 PMCID: PMC4200533 DOI: 10.1111/nmo.12419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2014] [Accepted: 07/27/2014] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anterograde in vitro tracing of the pelvic nerve (PN) and visualization in the horizontal plane in whole mount preparations has been fundamental in the analysis of distribution of peripheral nerves innervating the colorectum. Here, we performed a similar analysis, but in cryostat sections of the mouse colorectum, allowing for a more direct visualization of nerve distribution in all tissue layers. METHODS Colorectum with attached PNs was dissected from adult male BalbC mice. Presence of active afferents was certified by single fiber recording of fine PN fibers. This was followed by 'bulk' (all fibers) anterograde tracing using biotinamide (BTA). Histo- and immunohistochemical techniques were used for visualization of BTA-positive nerves, and evaluation of co-localization with calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), respectively. Tissue was analyzed using confocal microscopy on transverse or longitudinal colorectum sections. KEY RESULTS Abundant BTA-positive nerves spanning all layers of the mouse colorectum and contacting myenteric plexus neurons, distributing within the muscle layer, penetrating deeper into the organ and contacting blood vessels, submucosal plexus neurons or even penetrating the mucosa, were regularly detected. Several traced axons co-localized CGRP, supporting their afferent nature. Finally, anterograde tracing of the PN also exposed abundant BTA-positive nerves in the major pelvic ganglion. CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES We present the patterns of innervation of extrinsic axons across layers in the mouse colorectum, including the labile mucosal layer. The proposed approach could also be useful in the analysis of associations between morphology and physiology of peripheral nerves targeting the different layers of the colorectum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo R. Brumovsky
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Austral University, Pilar 1629, Buenos Aires, Argentina,CONICET (Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas), Buenos Aires, Argentina,Pittsburgh Center for Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213
| | - Jun-Ho La
- Pittsburgh Center for Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213
| | - G. F. Gebhart
- Pittsburgh Center for Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213
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24
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Haas S, Brock C, Krogh K, Gram M, Nissen TD, Lundby L, Laurberg S, Drewes AM. Cortical evoked potentials in response to rapid balloon distension of the rectum and anal canal. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2014; 26:862-73. [PMID: 24750321 DOI: 10.1111/nmo.12341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2013] [Accepted: 03/11/2014] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neurophysiological evaluation of anorectal sensory function is hampered by a paucity of methods. Rapid balloon distension (RBD) has been introduced to describe the cerebral response to rectal distension, but it has not successfully been applied to the anal canal. METHODS Nineteen healthy women received 30 RBDs in the rectum and the anal canal at intensities corresponding to sensory and unpleasantness thresholds, and response was recorded as cortical evoked potentials (CEPs) in 64-channels. The anal canal stimulations at unpleasantness level were repeated after 4 min to test the within-day reproducibility. CEPs were averaged, and to overcome latency variation related to jitter the spectral content of single sweeps was also computed. KEY RESULTS Repeated stimulation of the anal canal generated CEPs with similar latencies but smaller amplitudes compared to those from the rectum. Due to latency jitter, reproducibility of averaged CEPs was lower than what was found in the rectum. The most reproducible feature was N2P2 peak-to-peak amplitude with intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) of 0.7 and coefficient of variation (CV) of 18%. Spectral content of the single sweeps showed reproducibility with ICCs for all bands >0.8 and corresponding CVs <7%. CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES Cortical potentials evoked from the anal canal are challenged by latency jitter likely related to variability in muscle tone due to the distensions. Using single-sweep analysis, anal CEPs proved to be reproducible and should be used in future evaluation of the anal function.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Haas
- Department of Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
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Rau KK, Petruska JC, Cooper BY, Johnson RD. Distinct subclassification of DRG neurons innervating the distal colon and glans penis/distal urethra based on the electrophysiological current signature. J Neurophysiol 2014; 112:1392-408. [PMID: 24872531 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00560.2013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal sensory neurons innervating visceral and mucocutaneous tissues have unique microanatomic distribution, peripheral modality, and physiological, pharmacological, and biophysical characteristics compared with those neurons that innervate muscle and cutaneous tissues. In previous patch-clamp electrophysiological studies, we have demonstrated that small- and medium-diameter dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons can be subclassified on the basis of their patterns of voltage-activated currents (VAC). These VAC-based subclasses were highly consistent in their action potential characteristics, responses to algesic compounds, immunocytochemical expression patterns, and responses to thermal stimuli. For this study, we examined the VAC of neurons retrogradely traced from the distal colon and the glans penis/distal urethra in the adult male rat. The afferent population from the distal colon contained at least two previously characterized cell types observed in somatic tissues (types 5 and 8), as well as four novel cell types (types 15, 16, 17, and 18). In the glans penis/distal urethra, two previously described cell types (types 6 and 8) and three novel cell types (types 7, 14, and 15) were identified. Other characteristics, including action potential profiles, responses to algesic compounds (acetylcholine, capsaicin, ATP, and pH 5.0 solution), and neurochemistry (expression of substance P, CGRP, neurofilament, TRPV1, TRPV2, and isolectin B4 binding) were consistent for each VAC-defined subgroup. With identification of distinct DRG cell types that innervate the distal colon and glans penis/distal urethra, future in vitro studies related to the gastrointestinal and urogenital sensory function in normal as well as abnormal/pathological conditions may be benefitted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristofer K Rau
- Department of Anesthesiology, Department of Anatomical Sciences and Neurobiology, and Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of Louisville College of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky; Department of Physiological Sciences, University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine and McKnight Brain Institute, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Jeffrey C Petruska
- Department of Anatomical Sciences and Neurobiology, Department of Neurological Surgery, Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of Louisville College of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky
| | - Brian Y Cooper
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Division of Neuroscience, J. Hillis Miller Health Center, University of Florida College of Dentistry and McKnight Brain Institute, Gainesville, Florida; and
| | - Richard D Johnson
- Department of Physiological Sciences, University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine and McKnight Brain Institute, Gainesville, Florida
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Pustovit RV, Callaghan B, Kosari S, Rivera LR, Thomas H, Brock JA, Furness JB. The mechanism of enhanced defecation caused by the ghrelin receptor agonist, ulimorelin. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2014; 26:264-71. [PMID: 24304447 DOI: 10.1111/nmo.12259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2013] [Accepted: 10/11/2013] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Discovery of adequate pharmacological treatments for constipation has proven elusive. Increased numbers of bowel movements were reported as a side-effect of ulimorelin treatment of gastroparesis, but there has been no investigation of the site of action. METHODS Anesthetized rats were used to investigate sites and mechanisms of action of ulimorelin. KEY RESULTS Intravenous ulimorelin (1-5 mg/kg) caused a substantial and prolonged (~1 h) increase in colorectal propulsive activity and expulsion of colonic contents. This was prevented by cutting the nerves emerging from the lumbosacral cord, by the nicotinic receptor antagonist hexamethonium and by antagonists of the ghrelin receptor. The effect of intravenous ulimorelin was mimicked by direct application of ulimorelin (5 μg) to the lumbosacral spinal cord. CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES Ulimorelin is a potent prokinetic that causes propulsive contractions of the colorectum by activating ghrelin receptors of the lumbosacral defecation centers. Its effects are long-lasting, in contrast with other colokinetics that target ghrelin receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- R V Pustovit
- Department of Anatomy & Neuroscience, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
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27
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Clark K, Currow DC. A pilot study to assess the feasibility of measuring the prevalence of slow colon transit or evacuation disorder in palliative care. J Palliat Med 2013; 16:542-5. [PMID: 23621706 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2012.0379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Constipation is prevalent in palliative care. Whilst numerous factors contribute to this problem, opioid analgesia remains the most quoted aetiology. However, in gastroenterology, constipation is classified as a problem of prolonged transit times of colonic contents, impaired function of the structures of defecation or both. Little work in palliative care has used these assessments. AIMS The report aims to describe the feasibility of assessing the colon transit times and pelvic floor structures of constipated palliative care patients and to report the results of a pilot study of 10 people who underwent these investigations. METHODS Colon transit times were measured with a combination of orally administered radio-opaque markers and a single plain radiograph of the abdomen at day 5. Anal manometry plus rectal balloon expulsion was used to assess the pelvic floor. The results of the investigations were used to allocate people to one of four constipation subcategories: 1). slow colonic transit; 2) evacuation disorders; 3) mixed disorder or 4) normal transit. RESULTS Two people had slow transit only, 2 people had evacuation disorders only and 5 had both. Only person had neither problem. The investigations were well tolerated and took a small amount of people's time. CONCLUSION These pilot data strongly support the feasibility of undertaking comprehensive assessments of the colon and pelvic floor in palliative care patients with the results, although preliminary, highlighting the complexity of the problem of constipation. The results of this work underpin the need to progress to a much larger study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Clark
- Department of Palliative Care, Calvary Mater Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia.
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28
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Brock C, Olesen SS, Olesen AE, Frøkjaer JB, Andresen T, Drewes AM. Opioid-induced bowel dysfunction: pathophysiology and management. Drugs 2012; 72:1847-65. [PMID: 22950533 DOI: 10.2165/11634970-000000000-00000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Opioids are the most commonly prescribed medications to treat severe pain in the Western world. It has been estimated that up to 90% of American patients presenting to specialized pain centres are treated with opioids. Along with their analgesic properties, opioids have the potential to produce substantial side effects, such as nausea, cognitive impairment, addiction and urinary retention. In the gut, opioids exert their action on the enteric nervous system, where they bind to the myenteric and submucosal plexuses, causing dysmotility, decreased fluid secretion and sphincter dysfunction, which all leads to opioid-induced bowel dysfunction (OIBD). In the clinic, this is reported as nausea, vomiting, gastro-oesophageal reflux-related symptoms, constipation, etc. One of the most severe symptoms is constipation, which can be assessed using different scales for subjective assessment. Objective methods such as radiography and colonic transit time can also be used, together with manometry and evaluation of anorectal function to explore the pathophysiology. Dose-limiting adverse symptoms of OIBD can lead to insufficient pain treatment. Even though several treatment strategies are available, the side effects are still a major challenge. Traditional laxatives are normally prescribed but they are often insufficient to alleviate symptoms, especially those from the upper gastrointestinal tract. Newer prokinetics, such as prucalopride and lubiprostone, may be more effective in alleviating OIBD. Another treatment approach is co-administration of opioid antagonists, which either cannot cross the blood-brain barrier or selectively target opioid receptors in the gastrointestinal tract. However, although these new agents have proved to be more efficacious than placebo, clinical trials still need to prove their superiority to standard co-prescribed laxative regimes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Brock
- Mech-Sense, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Aalborg Hospital, Aarhus University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark.
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29
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Burgell RE, Scott SM. Rectal hyposensitivity. J Neurogastroenterol Motil 2012; 18:373-84. [PMID: 23105997 PMCID: PMC3479250 DOI: 10.5056/jnm.2012.18.4.373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2012] [Revised: 09/05/2012] [Accepted: 09/13/2012] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Impaired or blunted rectal sensation, termed rectal hyposensitivity (RH), which is defined clinically as elevated sensory thresholds to rectal balloon distension, is associated with disorders of hindgut function, characterised primarily by symptoms of constipation and fecal incontinence. However, its role in symptom generation and the pathogenetic mechanisms underlying the sensory dysfunction remain incompletely understood, although there is evidence that RH may be due to 'primary' disruption of the afferent pathway, 'secondary' to abnormal rectal biomechanics, or to both. Nevertheless, correction of RH by various interventions (behavioural, neuromodulation, surgical) is associated with, and may be responsible for, symptomatic improvement. This review provides a contemporary overview of RH, focusing on diagnosis, clinical associations, pathophysiology, and treatment paradigms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca E Burgell
- Academic Surgical Unit (GI Physiology Unit), Wingate Institute and Neurogastroenterology Group, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
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Brumovsky PR, La JH, McCarthy CJ, Hökfelt T, Gebhart GF. Dorsal root ganglion neurons innervating pelvic organs in the mouse express tyrosine hydroxylase. Neuroscience 2012; 223:77-91. [PMID: 22858598 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2012.07.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2012] [Revised: 07/02/2012] [Accepted: 07/18/2012] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies in rat and mouse documented that a subpopulation of dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons innervating non-visceral tissues express tyrosine hydroxylase (TH). Here we studied whether or not mouse DRG neurons retrogradely traced with Fast Blue (FB) from colorectum or urinary bladder also express immunohistochemically detectable TH. The lumbar sympathetic chain (LSC) and major pelvic ganglion (MPG) were included in the analysis. Previously characterized antibodies against TH, norepinephrine transporter type 1 (NET-1) and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) were used. On average, ∼14% of colorectal and ∼17% of urinary bladder DRG neurons expressed TH and spanned virtually all neuronal sizes, although more often in the medium-sized to small ranges. Also, they were more abundant in lumbosacral than thoracolumbar DRGs, and often coexpressed CGRP. We also detected several TH-immunoreactive (IR) colorectal and urinary bladder neurons in the LSC and the MPG, more frequently in the former. No NET-1-IR neurons were detected in DRGs, whereas the majority of FB-labeled, TH-IR neurons in the LSC and MPG coexpressed this marker (as did most other TH-IR neurons not labeled from the target organs). TH-IR nerve fibers were detected in all layers of the colorectum and the urinary bladder, with some also reaching the basal mucosal cells. Most TH-IR fibers in these organs lacked CGRP. Taken together, we show: (1) that a previously undescribed population of colorectal and urinary bladder DRG neurons expresses TH, often CGRP but not NET-1, suggesting the absence of a noradrenergic phenotype; and (2) that TH-IR axons/terminals in the colon or urinary bladder, naturally expected to derive from autonomic sources, could also originate from sensory neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- P R Brumovsky
- Center for Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.
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31
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Abstract
Vagus is Latin for wandering, and the vagus nerve fully deserves this name due to its extensive distribution through the body. Indeed, one of the lines of the song that accompanied the 2012 G. L. Brown Prize Lecture exaggerates this diversity, 'My function's almost anythin', and vagus is my name'. Alteration of vagal activity was first investigated in the 1880s as a treatment for epilepsy, and vagus nerve stimulation is now an approved treatment for refractory epilepsy and depression in the USA, despite an incomplete understanding of the mechanisms involved. Vagus nerve stimulation could be beneficial in many other conditions, including heart failure, tinnitus, chronic hiccups, Alzheimer's disease and inflammatory diseases. Inhibition of vagal activity could also be beneficial in some conditions, e.g. reducing activation of vagal respiratory afferents to treat chronic cough. This review discusses evidence underlying some current and potential therapeutic applications of vagal modulation, illustrating the wonders of the Wanderer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer A Clancy
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
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32
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Abstract
Human defecation involves integrated and coordinated sensorimotor functions, orchestrated by central, spinal, peripheral (somatic and visceral), and enteric neural activities, acting on a morphologically intact gastrointestinal tract (including the final common path, the pelvic floor, and anal sphincters). The multiple factors that ultimately result in defecation are best appreciated by describing four temporally and physiologically fairly distinct phases. This article details our current understanding of normal defecation, including recent advances, but importantly identifies those areas where knowledge or consensus is still lacking. Appreciation of normal physiology is central to directed treatment of constipation and also of fecal incontinence, which are prevalent in the general population and cause significant morbidity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Somnath Palit
- Academic Surgical Unit (GI Physiology Unit), Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University, London, UK.
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Gribovskaja-Rupp I, Takahashi T, Ridolfi T, Kosinski L, Ludwig K. Upregulation of mucosal 5-HT3 receptors is involved in restoration of colonic transit after pelvic nerve transection. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2012; 24:472-8, e218. [PMID: 22304456 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2982.2012.01890.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Colonic dysfunction occurs after pelvic autonomic nerve damage. The enteric nervous system can compensate. We investigated the role of mucosal serotonin receptors, 5-HT(3) and 5-HT(4) , in the colonic motility restoration over 2 weeks after parasympathetic pelvic nerve transection in a rat model. METHODS Male Sprague-Dawley rats underwent pelvic nerve transection or sham operation. Colonic transit was expressed as the geometric center of (51) Cr distribution. Mucosal 5-HT(3) and 5-HT(4) receptor expression was evaluated by Western blot. Intraluminal pressure increase was measured after 5-HT(3) (ondansetron) or 5-HT(4) receptor antagonist (GR125487) administration in vitro in sham and denervated distal colons. KEY RESULTS At 2 weeks, colonic transit in the denervated group was 30% slower compared to the sham group (P < 0.01). At 1 and 2 weeks, 5-HT(3) receptor expression was increased two-fold in the denervated group, compared to shams (P < 0.05). A three-fold smaller dose of ondansetron was required in denervated tissues to inhibit intraluminal pressure rise than in sham colons (P < 0.01). There was no difference in the expression of 5-HT(4) receptor or the response to GR125487 in denervated vs sham colons. CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES Colonic motility was restored to approximately 70% normal over 1 week without further improvement at 2 weeks. Enteric nervous system compensated by upregulating mucosal 5-HT(3,) but not 5-HT(4,) receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Gribovskaja-Rupp
- Department of Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Clement J Zablocki VA Medical Center, Milwaukee, WI, USA
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34
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Dinning PG, Arkwright JW, Costa M, Wiklendt L, Hennig G, Brookes SJH, Spencer NJ. Temporal relationships between wall motion, intraluminal pressure, and flow in the isolated rabbit small intestine. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2011; 300:G577-85. [PMID: 21193528 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00532.2010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Intraluminal manometry is a tool commonly used to record motility in the human digestive tract. The recorded signal results from a combination of factors, including the hydrodynamic pressure transmitted through the intestinal contents due to contraction of the gut wall and the force of the gut wall acting on the sensors in regions of a luminal occlusion. However, the actual relationships between small bowel wall contraction, the measured intraluminal pressure, and the resultant flow have not been directly addressed. Video recording and high-resolution fiber-optic manometry were used to create spatiotemporal video maps of diameter and intraluminal pressure from isolated segments of rabbit small intestine. In the unstimulated gut, longitudinal muscle contractions were the only detectable motor pattern; circular muscle contractions were elicited by distension or erythromycin (1 μM). Longitudinal muscle contractions were not lumen-occlusive, although they caused measurable low-amplitude changes in pressure. Localized nonpropagating circular muscle contractions caused small localized, nonpropagating peaks of intraluminal pressure. Propagating contractions of circular muscle evoked larger, propagating pressure changes that were associated with outflow. Propagating circular muscle contractions often caused dilation of aboral receiving segments, corresponding to "common cavities"; these were propulsive, despite their low intraluminal pressure. The highest-amplitude pressure events were caused by lumen-occlusive circular muscle contractions that squeezed directly against the catheter. These data allow us to define the complex relationships between wall motion, intraluminal pressure, and flow. A strong correlation between circular and longitudinal muscle contraction and intraluminal pressure was demonstrated. Common-cavity pressure events, caused by propulsion of content by circular muscle contractions into a receptive segment, were often of low amplitude but were highly propulsive. Studies of wall motion in isolated preparations, combined with manometry, can assist in interpretation of pressure recordings in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- P G Dinning
- St. George Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Australia.
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35
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Peeters B, Benninga MA, Hennekam RC. Childhood constipation; an overview of genetic studies and associated syndromes. Best Pract Res Clin Gastroenterol 2011; 25:73-88. [PMID: 21382580 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpg.2010.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2010] [Revised: 12/03/2010] [Accepted: 12/13/2010] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Constipation is a common problem in children but little is known about its exact pathophysiology. Environmental, behavioural but also genetic factors are thought to play a role in the aetiology of childhood constipation. We provide an overview of genetic studies performed in constipation. Until now, linkage studies, association studies and direct gene sequencing have failed to identify mutations in specific genes associated with constipation. We show that along with functional constipation, there are numerous clinical syndromes associated with childhood constipation. These syndromic forms of constipation appear to be the result of mutations in genes affecting all aspects of the normal physiology of human defecation. We stress that syndromic causes of childhood constipation should be considered in the evaluation of a constipated child.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Peeters
- Department of Paediatric Gastrointestinal Motility and Nutrition, Emma Children's Hospital, Academic Medical Centre, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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Scott SM, van den Berg MM, Benninga MA. Rectal sensorimotor dysfunction in constipation. Best Pract Res Clin Gastroenterol 2011; 25:103-18. [PMID: 21382582 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpg.2011.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2010] [Accepted: 01/03/2011] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
The pathophysiological mechanisms underlying chronic constipation in both adults and children remain to be unravelled. This is a not inconsiderable challenge, but is fundamental to improving management of such patients. Rectal sensorimotor function, which encompasses both sensation and motility, as well as biomechanical components (compliance, capacity), is now strongly implicated in the pathogenesis of constipation. Rectal hyposensitivity, rectal hypercompliance, increased rectal capacity, rectal motor dysfunction (phasic contractility and tone), and altered rectoanal reflex activity are all found in constipated patients, particularly in association with 'functional' disorders of defaecation (i.e. pelvic floor dyssynergia). This review covers contemporary understanding of how components of rectal sensorimotor function may contribute to symptom development in both adult and paediatric populations. The complex interaction between sensory/motor/biomechanical domains, and how best to measure these functions are addressed, and where data exist, the impact of sensorimotor dysfunction on therapeutic outcomes is highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- S M Scott
- Academic Surgical Unit & Neurogastroenterology Group, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University London, United Kingdom.
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37
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Lynn PA, Brookes SJH. Function and morphology correlates of rectal nerve mechanoreceptors innervating the guinea pig internal anal sphincter. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2011; 23:88-95, e9. [PMID: 20796213 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2982.2010.01593.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mechanoreceptors to the internal anal sphincter (IAS) contribute to continence and normal defecation, yet relatively little is known about their function or morphology. We investigated the function and structure of mechanoreceptors to the guinea pig IAS. METHODS Extracellular recordings from rectal nerve branches to the IAS in vitro, combined with anterograde labeling of recorded nerve trunks, were used to characterize extrinsic afferent nerve endings activated by circumferential distension. KEY RESULTS Slowly adapting, stretch-sensitive afferents were recorded in rectal nerves to the IAS. Ten of 11 were silent under basal conditions and responded to circumferential stretch in a saturating linear manner. Rectal nerve afferents responded to compression with von Frey hairs with low thresholds (0.3-0.5 mN) and 3.4 ± 0.5 discrete, elongated mechanosensitive fields of innervation aligned parallel to circular muscle bundles (length = 62 ± 16 mm, n = 10). Anterogradely labeled rectal nerve axons typically passed through sparse irregular myenteric ganglia adjacent to the IAS, before ending in extensive varicose arrays within the circular muscle and, to a lesser extent, the longitudinal muscle overlying the IAS. Few (8%) IAS myenteric ganglia contained intraganglionic laminar endings. In eight preparations, mechanotransduction sites were mapped in combination with successful anterograde fills. Mechanotransduction sites were strongly associated with extensive fine varicose arrays within the circular muscle (P < 0.05), and not with any other neural structures. CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES Mechanotransduction sites for low-threshold, slowly adapting mechanoreceptors innervating the IAS are likely to correspond to extensive fine varicose arrays within the circular muscle.
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Affiliation(s)
- P A Lynn
- Department of Human Physiology, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA, Australia.
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Hirayama H, Shiina T, Shima T, Kuramoto H, Takewaki T, B Furness J, Shimizu Y. Contrasting effects of ghrelin and des-acyl ghrelin on the lumbo-sacral defecation center and regulation of colorectal motility in rats. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2010; 22:1124-31. [PMID: 20584261 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2982.2010.01553.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We have previously demonstrated that a centrally penetrant ghrelin receptor agonist enhances colorectal motility, through activation of the lumbo-sacral defecation center (L6-S1 region of the spinal cord) in rats. In the present study, we examined the effects of the native peptide and its non-acylated counterpart in eliciting this stimulatory effect on colorectal motility. METHODS Rats were anesthetised with α-chloralose and ketamine, and colorectal intraluminal pressure and propelled intraluminal liquid volume were recorded in vivo. KEY RESULTS Intrathecal application of acylated ghrelin to the L6-S1 region of the spinal cord, but not intravenous application, elicited groups of phasic increases in colorectal intraluminal pressure that were associated with increased fluid output through the anal cannula. The effect was dose-dependent. The colokinetic effects of ghrelin were prevented if the pelvic nerves were severed. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction revealed the expression of the ghrelin and ghrelin receptor genes in the lumbo-sacral spinal cord. In contrast to acylated ghrelin, des-acyl ghrelin failed to cause changes in colorectal motility. However, when des-acyl ghrelin and ghrelin were applied simultaneously at the L6-S1 region, the ghrelin-induced enhancement of colorectal motility was significantly attenuated. CONCLUSION & INFERENCES It is concluded that acylation of the ghrelin peptide is essential to promote propulsive contractions of the colorectum and that des-acyl ghrelin opposes this effect. At most other sites of ghrelin action, des-acyl ghrelin either has no effect or it mimics ghrelin. This is the first evidence that non-acylated ghrelin opposes the action of the acylated peptide in the spinal cord.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Hirayama
- Laboratory of Physiology, Department of Basic Veterinary Science, The United Graduate School of Veterinary Sciences, Gifu University, Yanagido, Gifu, Japan
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