Interplay between mast cells, enterochromaffin cells, and sensory signaling in the aging human bowel.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Advanced age is associated with a reduction in clinical visceral pain perception. However, the underlying mechanisms remain largely unknown. Previous studies have suggested that an abnormal interplay between mast cells, enterochromaffin (EC) cells, and afferent nerves contribute to nociception in gastrointestinal disorders. The aim of this study was to investigate how aging affects afferent sensitivity and neuro-immune association in the human bowel.

Methods

Mechanical and chemical sensitivity of human bowel afferents were examined by ex vivo afferent nerve recordings. Age-related changes in the density of mast cells, EC cells, sensory nerve terminals, and mast cell-nerve micro-anatomical association were investigated by histological and immune staining.

Key re

SUBMITTER: Yu Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5053273 | biostudies-literature | 2016 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature