The role of neural activity in the migration and differentiation of enteric neuron precursors

Abstract

Background As they migrate through the developing gut, a sub-population of enteric neural crest-derived cells (ENCCs) begins to differentiate into neurons. The early appearance of neurons raises the possibility that electrical activity and neurotransmitter release could influence the migration or differentiation of ENNCs. Methods The appearance of neuronal sub-types in the gut of embryonic mice was examined using immunohistochemistry. The effects of blocking various forms of neural activity on ENCC migration and neuronal differentiation were examined using explants of cultured embryonic gut. Key Results Nerve fibers were present in close apposition to many ENCCs. Commencing at E11.5, neurona..