Cellular mechanisms controlling neural crest cell migration along the developing gut

Abstract

Within the wall of the gut, there are a large number of neurons, probably more than are in the spinal cord. These enteric neurons play an essential role in controlling a number of gut functions including peristalsis (the propulsion of contents along the gut). Most of the neurons in the gut, including those in the large intestine, arise from precursors that emigrate from the hindbrain, and then migrate into and along the gastrointestinal tract during development. The colonization of the gut by neuron precursors takes 5 days in mice and 6 weeks in humans. Studies of the mechanisms controlling the migration of neuron precursors along the gut have provided fundamental information about cell migr..