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Morales-Soto W, Thomasi B, Gulbransen BD. Endocannabinoids regulate enteric neuron-glia networks and visceral hypersensitivity following inflammation through a glial-dependent mechanism. Glia 2024. [PMID: 39132860 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 08/13/2024]
Abstract
Acute gastrointestinal (GI) inflammation induces neuroplasticity that produces long-lasting changes in gut motor function and pain. The endocannabinoid system is an attractive target to correct pain and dysmotility, but how inflammation changes endocannabinoid control over cellular communication in enteric neurocircuits is not understood. Enteric glia modulate gut neurons that control motility and pain and express monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) which controls endocannabinoid availability. We used a combination of in situ calcium imaging, chemogenetics, and selective drugs to study how endocannabinoid mechanisms affect glial responses and subsequent enteric neuron activity in health and following colitis in Wnt1Cre;GCaMP5g-tdT;GFAP::hM3Dq mice. Trpv1Cre;GCaMP5gtdT mice were used to study nociceptor sensitivity and Sox10CreERT2;Mgllf/f mice were used to test the role of glial MAGL in visceral pain. The data show that endocannabinoid signaling regulates neuro-glial signaling in gut neurocircuits in a sexually dimorphic manner. Inhibiting MAGL in healthy samples decreased glial responsiveness but this effect was lost in females following colitis and converted to an excitatory effect in males. Manipulating CB1 and CB2 receptors revealed further sex differences amongst neuro-glia signaling that were impacted following inflammation. Inflammation increased gut nociceptor sensitivity in both sexes but only females exhibited visceral hypersensitivity in vivo. Blocking MAGL normalized nociceptor responses in vitro and deleting glial Mgll in vivo rescued visceral hypersensitivity in females. These results show that sex and inflammation impact endocannabinoid mechanisms that regulate intercellular enteric glia-neuron communication. Further, targeting glial MAGL could provide therapeutic benefits for visceral nociception in a sex-dependent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wilmarie Morales-Soto
- Department of Physiology, Neuroscience Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Beatriz Thomasi
- Department of Physiology, Neuroscience Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Brian D Gulbransen
- Department of Physiology, Neuroscience Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
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2
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Santhosh S, Zanoletti L, Stamp LA, Hao MM, Matteoli G. From diversity to disease: unravelling the role of enteric glial cells. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1408744. [PMID: 38957473 PMCID: PMC11217337 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1408744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Enteric glial cells (EGCs) are an essential component of the enteric nervous system (ENS) and play key roles in gastrointestinal development, homeostasis, and disease. Derived from neural crest cells, EGCs undergo complex differentiation processes regulated by various signalling pathways. Being among the most dynamic cells of the digestive system, EGCs react to cues in their surrounding microenvironment and communicate with various cell types and systems within the gut. Morphological studies and recent single cell RNA sequencing studies have unveiled heterogeneity among EGC populations with implications for regional functions and roles in diseases. In gastrointestinal disorders, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), infections and cancer, EGCs modulate neuroplasticity, immune responses and tumorigenesis. Recent evidence suggests that EGCs respond plastically to the microenvironmental cues, adapting their phenotype and functions in disease states and taking on a crucial role. They exhibit molecular abnormalities and alter communication with other intestinal cell types, underscoring their therapeutic potential as targets. This review delves into the multifaceted roles of EGCs, particularly emphasizing their interactions with various cell types in the gut and their significant contributions to gastrointestinal disorders. Understanding the complex roles of EGCs in gastrointestinal physiology and pathology will be crucial for the development of novel therapeutic strategies for gastrointestinal disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sneha Santhosh
- Department of Chronic Diseases, Metabolism (CHROMETA), Translational Research Center for Gastrointestinal Disorders (TARGID), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Lisa Zanoletti
- Department of Chronic Diseases, Metabolism (CHROMETA), Translational Research Center for Gastrointestinal Disorders (TARGID), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology “Lazzaro Spallanzani”, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Lincon A. Stamp
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Marlene M. Hao
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Gianluca Matteoli
- Department of Chronic Diseases, Metabolism (CHROMETA), Translational Research Center for Gastrointestinal Disorders (TARGID), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Leuven Institute for Single-cell Omics (LISCO), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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3
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Gonzales J, Dharshika C, Mazhar K, Morales-Soto W, McClain JL, Moeser AJ, Nault R, Price TJ, Gulbransen BD. Early life adversity promotes gastrointestinal dysfunction through a sex-dependent phenotypic switch in enteric glia. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.31.596805. [PMID: 38895433 PMCID: PMC11185517 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.31.596805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Irritable bowel syndrome and related disorders of gut-brain interaction (DGBI) are common and exhibit a complex, poorly understood etiology that manifests as abnormal gut motility and pain. Risk factors such as biological sex, stressors during critical periods, and inflammation are thought to influence DGBI vulnerability by reprogramming gut-brain circuits, but the specific cells affected are unclear. Here, we used a model of early life stress to understand cellular mechanisms in the gut that produce DGBIs. Our findings identify enteric glia as a key cellular substrate in which stress and biological sex converge to dictate DGBI susceptibility. Enteric glia exhibit sexual dimorphism in genes and functions related to cellular communication, inflammation, and disease susceptibility. Experiencing early life stress has sex-specific effects on enteric glia that cause a phenotypic switch in male glia toward a phenotype normally observed in females. This phenotypic transformation is followed by physiological changes in the gut, mirroring those observed in DGBI in humans. These effects are mediated, in part, by alterations to glial prostaglandin and endocannabinoid signaling. Together, these data identify enteric glia as a cellular integration site through which DGBI risk factors produce changes in gut physiology and suggest that manipulating glial signaling may represent an attractive target for sex-specific therapeutic strategies in DGBIs.
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4
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Llorente C. The Imperative for Innovative Enteric Nervous System-Intestinal Organoid Co-Culture Models: Transforming GI Disease Modeling and Treatment. Cells 2024; 13:820. [PMID: 38786042 PMCID: PMC11119846 DOI: 10.3390/cells13100820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
This review addresses the need for innovative co-culture systems integrating the enteric nervous system (ENS) with intestinal organoids. The breakthroughs achieved through these techniques will pave the way for a transformative era in gastrointestinal (GI) disease modeling and treatment strategies. This review serves as an introduction to the companion protocol paper featured in this journal. The protocol outlines the isolation and co-culture of myenteric and submucosal neurons with small intestinal organoids. This review provides an overview of the intestinal organoid culture field to establish a solid foundation for effective protocol application. Remarkably, the ENS surpasses the number of neurons in the spinal cord. Referred to as the "second brain", the ENS orchestrates pivotal roles in GI functions, including motility, blood flow, and secretion. The ENS is organized into myenteric and submucosal plexuses. These plexuses house diverse subtypes of neurons. Due to its proximity to the gut musculature and its cell type complexity, there are methodological intricacies in studying the ENS. Diverse approaches such as primary cell cultures, three-dimensional (3D) neurospheres, and induced ENS cells offer diverse insights into the multifaceted functionality of the ENS. The ENS exhibits dynamic interactions with the intestinal epithelium, the muscle layer, and the immune system, influencing epithelial physiology, motility, immune responses, and the microbiome. Neurotransmitters, including acetylcholine (ACh), serotonin (5-HT), and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), play pivotal roles in these intricate interactions. Understanding these dynamics is imperative, as the ENS is implicated in various diseases, ranging from neuropathies to GI disorders and neurodegenerative diseases. The emergence of organoid technology presents an unprecedented opportunity to study ENS interactions within the complex milieu of the small and large intestines. This manuscript underscores the urgent need for standardized protocols and advanced techniques to unravel the complexities of the ENS and its dynamic relationship with the gut ecosystem. The insights gleaned from such endeavors hold the potential to revolutionize GI disease modeling and treatment paradigms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Llorente
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, MC0063, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
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5
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Rajasekhar P, Carbone SE, Johnston ST, Nowell CJ, Wiklendt L, Crampin EJ, She Y, DiCello JJ, Saito A, Sorensen L, Nguyen T, Lee KM, Hamilton JA, King SK, Eriksson EM, Spencer NJ, Gulbransen BD, Veldhuis NA, Poole DP. TRPV4 is expressed by enteric glia and muscularis macrophages of the colon but does not play a prominent role in colonic motility. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.09.574831. [PMID: 38260314 PMCID: PMC10802399 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.09.574831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Background Mechanosensation is an important trigger of physiological processes in the gastrointestinal tract. Aberrant responses to mechanical input are associated with digestive disorders, including visceral hypersensitivity. Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid 4 (TRPV4) is a mechanosensory ion channel with proposed roles in visceral afferent signaling, intestinal inflammation, and gut motility. While TRPV4 is a potential therapeutic target for digestive disease, current mechanistic understanding of how TRPV4 may influence gut function is limited by inconsistent reports of TRPV4 expression and distribution. Methods In this study we profiled functional expression of TRPV4 using Ca2+ imaging of wholemount preparations of the mouse, monkey, and human intestine in combination with immunofluorescent labeling for established cellular markers. The involvement of TRPV4 in colonic motility was assessed in vitro using videomapping and contraction assays. Results The TRPV4 agonist GSK1016790A evoked Ca2+ signaling in muscularis macrophages, enteric glia, and endothelial cells. TRPV4 specificity was confirmed using TRPV4 KO mouse tissue or antagonist pre-treatment. Calcium responses were not detected in other cell types required for neuromuscular signaling including enteric neurons, interstitial cells of Cajal, PDGFRα+ cells, and intestinal smooth muscle. TRPV4 activation led to rapid Ca2+ responses by a subpopulation of glial cells, followed by sustained Ca2+ signaling throughout the enteric glial network. Propagation of these waves was suppressed by inhibition of gap junctions or Ca2+ release from intracellular stores. Coordinated glial signaling in response to GSK1016790A was also disrupted in acute TNBS colitis. The involvement of TRPV4 in the initiation and propagation of colonic motility patterns was examined in vitro. Conclusions We reveal a previously unappreciated role for TRPV4 in the initiation of distension-evoked colonic motility. These observations provide new insights into the functional role of TRPV4 activation in the gut, with important implications for how TRPV4 may influence critical processes including inflammatory signaling and motility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pradeep Rajasekhar
- Drug Discovery Biology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
- Centre for Dynamic Imaging, WEHI, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Simona E Carbone
- Drug Discovery Biology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Stuart T Johnston
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Cameron J Nowell
- Drug Discovery Biology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Lukasz Wiklendt
- College of Medicine & Public Health, Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA, Australia
| | - Edmund J Crampin
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Yinghan She
- Drug Discovery Biology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Jesse J DiCello
- Drug Discovery Biology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Ayame Saito
- Drug Discovery Biology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Luke Sorensen
- Drug Discovery Biology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Thanh Nguyen
- Drug Discovery Biology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Kevin Mc Lee
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - John A Hamilton
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Sebastian K King
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, The Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
- Surgical Research, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Emily M Eriksson
- Population Health and Immunity, WEHI, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Nick J Spencer
- College of Medicine & Public Health, Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA, Australia
| | | | - Nicholas A Veldhuis
- Drug Discovery Biology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Daniel P Poole
- Drug Discovery Biology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
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Abstract
Glial cells in the gut are specialized to fine-tune intestinal function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marissa Scavuzzo
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA
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7
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Mariant CL, Bacola G, Van Landeghem L. Mini-Review: Enteric glia of the tumor microenvironment: An affair of corruption. Neurosci Lett 2023; 814:137416. [PMID: 37572875 PMCID: PMC10967235 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2023.137416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023]
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment corresponds to a complex mixture of bioactive products released by local and recruited cells whose normal functions have been "corrupted" by cues originating from the tumor, mostly to favor cancer growth, dissemination and resistance to therapies. While the immune and the mesenchymal cellular components of the tumor microenvironment in colon cancer have been under intense scrutiny over the last two decades, the influence of the resident neural cells of the gut on colon carcinogenesis has only very recently begun to draw attention. The vast majority of the resident neural cells of the gastrointestinal tract belong to the enteric nervous system and correspond to enteric neurons and enteric glial cells, both of which have been understudied in the context of colon cancer development and progression. In this review, we especially discuss available evidence on enteric glia impact on colon carcinogenesis. To highlight "corrupted" functioning in enteric glial cells of the tumor microenvironment and its repercussion on tumorigenesis, we first review the main regulatory effects of enteric glial cells on the intestinal epithelium in homeostatic conditions and we next present current knowledge on enteric glia influence on colon tumorigenesis. We particularly examine how enteric glial cell heterogeneity and plasticity require further appreciation to better understand the distinct regulatory interactions enteric glial cell subtypes engage with the various cell types of the tumor, and to identify novel biological targets to block enteric glia pro-carcinogenic signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chloe L Mariant
- Department of Molecular Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA.
| | - Gregory Bacola
- Department of Molecular Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA.
| | - Laurianne Van Landeghem
- Department of Molecular Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA.
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8
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Sanchini G, Vaes N, Boesmans W. Mini-review: Enteric glial cell heterogeneity: Is it all about the niche? Neurosci Lett 2023; 812:137396. [PMID: 37442521 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2023.137396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
Enteric glial cells represent the enteric population of peripheral glia. According to their 'glial' nature, their principal function is to support enteric neurons in both structural and functional ways. Mounting evidence however demonstrates that enteric glial cells crucially contribute to the majority of enteric nervous system functions, thus acting as pivotal players in the maintenance of gut homeostasis. Various types of enteric glia are present within the gut wall, creating an intricate interaction network with other gastrointestinal cell types. Their distribution throughout the different layers of the gut wall translates in characteristic phenotypes that are tailored to the local tissue requirements of the digestive tract. This heterogeneity is assumed to be mirrored by functional specialization, but the extensive plasticity and versatility of enteric glial cells complicates a one on one phenotype/function definition. Moreover, the relative contribution of niche-specific signals versus lineage determinants for driving enteric glial heterogeneity is still uncertain. In this review we focus on the current understanding of phenotypic and functional enteric glial cell heterogeneity, from a microenvironmental and developmental perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriele Sanchini
- Enteric Neurobiology Lab, Biomedical Research Institute (BIOMED), Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Nathalie Vaes
- Enteric Neurobiology Lab, Biomedical Research Institute (BIOMED), Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Werend Boesmans
- Enteric Neurobiology Lab, Biomedical Research Institute (BIOMED), Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium; Department of Pathology, GROW-School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, the Netherlands.
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9
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Lefèvre MA, Soret R, Pilon N. Harnessing the Power of Enteric Glial Cells' Plasticity and Multipotency for Advancing Regenerative Medicine. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12475. [PMID: 37569849 PMCID: PMC10419543 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241512475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The enteric nervous system (ENS), known as the intrinsic nervous system of the gastrointestinal tract, is composed of a diverse array of neuronal and glial cell subtypes. Fascinating questions surrounding the generation of cellular diversity in the ENS have captivated ENS biologists for a considerable time, particularly with recent advancements in cell type-specific transcriptomics at both population and single-cell levels. However, the current focus of research in this field is predominantly restricted to the study of enteric neuron subtypes, while the investigation of enteric glia subtypes significantly lags behind. Despite this, enteric glial cells (EGCs) are increasingly recognized as equally important regulators of numerous bowel functions. Moreover, a subset of postnatal EGCs exhibits remarkable plasticity and multipotency, distinguishing them as critical entities in the context of advancing regenerative medicine. In this review, we aim to provide an updated overview of the current knowledge on this subject, while also identifying key questions that necessitate future exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie A. Lefèvre
- Département des Sciences Biologiques, Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM), Montreal, QC H3C 3P8, Canada;
- Centre D’excellence en Recherche Sur Les Maladies Orphelines—Fondation Courtois (CERMO-FC), Université du Québec à Montréal, Montreal, QC H2X 3Y7, Canada
| | - Rodolphe Soret
- Département des Sciences Biologiques, Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM), Montreal, QC H3C 3P8, Canada;
- Centre D’excellence en Recherche Sur Les Maladies Orphelines—Fondation Courtois (CERMO-FC), Université du Québec à Montréal, Montreal, QC H2X 3Y7, Canada
| | - Nicolas Pilon
- Département des Sciences Biologiques, Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM), Montreal, QC H3C 3P8, Canada;
- Centre D’excellence en Recherche Sur Les Maladies Orphelines—Fondation Courtois (CERMO-FC), Université du Québec à Montréal, Montreal, QC H2X 3Y7, Canada
- Département de Pédiatrie, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H3T 1C5, Canada
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Scavuzzo MA, Letai KC, Maeno-Hikichi Y, Wulftange WJ, Shah IK, Rameshbabu JS, Tomar A, Shick HE, Shah AK, Xiong Y, Cohn EF, Allan KC, Tesar PJ. Enteric glial hub cells coordinate intestinal motility. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.06.07.544052. [PMID: 37333182 PMCID: PMC10274798 DOI: 10.1101/2023.06.07.544052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
Enteric glia are the predominant cell type in the enteric nervous system yet their identities and roles in gastrointestinal function are not well classified. Using our optimized single nucleus RNA-sequencing method, we identified distinct molecular classes of enteric glia and defined their morphological and spatial diversity. Our findings revealed a functionally specialized biosensor subtype of enteric glia that we call "hub cells." Deletion of the mechanosensory ion channel PIEZO2 from adult enteric glial hub cells, but not other subtypes of enteric glia, led to defects in intestinal motility and gastric emptying in mice. These results provide insight into the multifaceted functions of different enteric glial cell subtypes in gut health and emphasize that therapies targeting enteric glia could advance the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marissa A. Scavuzzo
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, USA
| | - Katherine C. Letai
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, USA
| | - Yuka Maeno-Hikichi
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, USA
| | - William J. Wulftange
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, USA
| | - Isha K. Shah
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, USA
| | - Jeyashri S. Rameshbabu
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, USA
| | - Alka Tomar
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, USA
| | - H. Elizabeth Shick
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, USA
| | - Aakash K. Shah
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, USA
| | - Ying Xiong
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, USA
| | - Erin F. Cohn
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, USA
| | - Kevin C. Allan
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, USA
| | - Paul J. Tesar
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, USA
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11
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Thomasi B, Gulbransen B. Mini-review: Intercellular communication between enteric glia and neurons. Neurosci Lett 2023; 806:137263. [PMID: 37085112 PMCID: PMC10150911 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2023.137263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/23/2023]
Abstract
The enteric nervous system is a dense network of enteric neurons and glia housed in the gastrointestinal tract. This system is responsible for performing several functions that enable digestion as well as maintaining gut homeostasis through diverse signaling processes including those that arise from interactions with the immune system. Bidirectional communication between enteric neurons and enteric glia has gained increased attention for playing essential roles in enteric nervous system function. Neuronal mediators such as neurotransmitters stimulate enteric glia and subsequent gliotransmission processes refine neuronal signaling during intestinal motor control. In this mini-review, we present and discuss the basis of intercellular signaling between neurons and glia in the enteric nervous system and the relevance of these interactions to gut function.
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12
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Seguella L, Palenca I, Franzin SB, Zilli A, Esposito G. Mini-review: Interaction between intestinal microbes and enteric glia in health and disease. Neurosci Lett 2023; 806:137221. [PMID: 37031943 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2023.137221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023]
Abstract
Enteric glia are a unique population of peripheral neuroglia associated with the enteric nervous system (ENS) throughout the digestive tract. The emerging data from the latest glial biology studies unveiled enteric glia as a heterogenic population with plastic and adaptative abilities that display phenotypic and functional changes upon distinct extrinsic cues. This aspect is essential in the dynamic signaling that enteric glia engage with neurons and other neighboring cells within the intestinal wall, such as epithelial, endocrine, and immune cells to maintain local homeostasis. Likewise, enteric glia sense signals from luminal microbes, although the extent of this active communication is still unclear. In this minireview, we discuss the recent findings that support glia-microbes crosstalk in the intestine in health and disease, pointing out the critical aspects that require further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luisa Seguella
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "V. Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Italy.
| | - Irene Palenca
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "V. Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Italy.
| | - Silvia Basili Franzin
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "V. Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Italy.
| | - Aurora Zilli
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "V. Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Italy.
| | - Giuseppe Esposito
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "V. Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Italy.
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13
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Patyal P, Fil D, Wight PA. Plp1 in the enteric nervous system is preferentially expressed during early postnatal development in mouse as DM20, whose expression appears reliant on an intronic enhancer. Front Cell Neurosci 2023; 17:1175614. [PMID: 37293625 PMCID: PMC10244531 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2023.1175614] [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: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Recently, the myelin proteolipid protein gene (Plp1) was shown to be expressed in the glia of the enteric nervous system (ENS) in mouse. However, beyond this, not much is known about its expression in the intestine. To address this matter, we investigated Plp1 expression at the mRNA and protein levels in the intestine of mice at different ages (postnatal days 2, 9, 21, and 88). In this study, we show that Plp1 expression preferentially occurs during early postnatal development, primarily as the DM20 isoform. Western blot analysis indicated that DM20 migrated according to its formula weight when isolated from the intestine. However, mobilities of both PLP and DM20 were faster than expected when procured from the brain. The 6.2hPLP(+)Z/FL transgene, which uses the first half of the human PLP1 gene to drive expression of a lacZ reporter gene, recapitulated the developmental pattern observed with the native gene in the intestine, indicating that it can be used as a proxy for Plp1 gene expression. As such, the relative levels of β-galactosidase (β-gal) activity emanating from the 6.2hPLP(+)Z/FL transgene suggest that Plp1 expression is highest in the duodenum, and decreases successively along the segments, toward the colon. Moreover, removal of the wmN1 enhancer region from the transgene (located within Plp1 intron 1) resulted in a dramatic reduction in both transgene mRNA levels and β-gal activity in the intestine, throughout development, suggesting that this region contains a regulatory element crucial for Plp1 expression. This is consistent with earlier studies in both the central and peripheral nervous systems, indicating that it may be a common (if not universal) means by which Plp1 gene expression is governed.
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Bagyánszki M, Bódi N. Key elements determining the intestinal region-specific environment of enteric neurons in type 1 diabetes. World J Gastroenterol 2023; 29:2704-2716. [PMID: 37274063 PMCID: PMC10237112 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v29.i18.2704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetes, as a metabolic disorder, is accompanied with several gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms, like abdominal pain, gastroparesis, diarrhoea or constipation. Serious and complex enteric nervous system damage is confirmed in the background of these diabetic motility complaints. The anatomical length of the GI tract, as well as genetic, developmental, structural and functional differences between its segments contribute to the distinct, intestinal region-specific effects of hyperglycemia. These observations support and highlight the importance of a regional approach in diabetes-related enteric neuropathy. Intestinal large and microvessels are essential for the blood supply of enteric ganglia. Bidirectional morpho-functional linkage exists between enteric neurons and enteroglia, however, there is also a reciprocal communication between enteric neurons and immune cells on which intestinal microbial composition has crucial influence. From this point of view, it is more appropriate to say that enteric neurons partake in multidirectional communication and interact with these key players of the intestinal wall. These interplays may differ from segment to segment, thus, the microenvironment of enteric neurons could be considered strictly regional. The goal of this review is to summarize the main tissue components and molecular factors, such as enteric glia cells, interstitial cells of Cajal, gut vasculature, intestinal epithelium, gut microbiota, immune cells, enteroendocrine cells, pro-oxidants, antioxidant molecules and extracellular matrix, which create and determine a gut region-dependent neuronal environment in diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mária Bagyánszki
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Neuroscience, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Szeged H-6726, Hungary
| | - Nikolett Bódi
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Neuroscience, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Szeged H-6726, Hungary
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Sharkey KA, Mawe GM. The enteric nervous system. Physiol Rev 2023; 103:1487-1564. [PMID: 36521049 PMCID: PMC9970663 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00018.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 58.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Of all the organ systems in the body, the gastrointestinal tract is the most complicated in terms of the numbers of structures involved, each with different functions, and the numbers and types of signaling molecules utilized. The digestion of food and absorption of nutrients, electrolytes, and water occurs in a hostile luminal environment that contains a large and diverse microbiota. At the core of regulatory control of the digestive and defensive functions of the gastrointestinal tract is the enteric nervous system (ENS), a complex system of neurons and glia in the gut wall. In this review, we discuss 1) the intrinsic neural control of gut functions involved in digestion and 2) how the ENS interacts with the immune system, gut microbiota, and epithelium to maintain mucosal defense and barrier function. We highlight developments that have revolutionized our understanding of the physiology and pathophysiology of enteric neural control. These include a new understanding of the molecular architecture of the ENS, the organization and function of enteric motor circuits, and the roles of enteric glia. We explore the transduction of luminal stimuli by enteroendocrine cells, the regulation of intestinal barrier function by enteric neurons and glia, local immune control by the ENS, and the role of the gut microbiota in regulating the structure and function of the ENS. Multifunctional enteric neurons work together with enteric glial cells, macrophages, interstitial cells, and enteroendocrine cells integrating an array of signals to initiate outputs that are precisely regulated in space and time to control digestion and intestinal homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keith A Sharkey
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute and Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Gary M Mawe
- Department of Neurological Sciences, Larner College of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont
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