Origin of enteric nervous system cells and migration pathways during embryonic development

The enteric nervous system (ENS) is represented by a complex network of neurons, glial and other cells within the wall digestive tract. ENS responsible for numerous, vital functions in our body. Thus, regulates motility tract, secretion into intestinal lumen, exchange fluid electrolytes through mucosa, as well mucosal perfusion. In order to perform these important functions, proper embryonic development necessary. are derived from precursor neural crest (NCCs - cells). Two cell populations that contribute largest number future vagal sacral NCCs. Vagal NCCs enter primitive gut tube region esophagus (foregut), begin their migration, midgut towards hindgut anal region. Sacral following extrinsic nerve fibers continue migration rostrally, Along with process, undergo processes, such proliferation, neuro-glial differentiation, gangliogenesis, axonal pathway formation synaptogenesis. All processes strictly regulated numerous signaling pathways, which still being actively researched. Modern lineage tracing technologies, enabled individual will significantly better understanding ENS. This may have repercussions improving diagnosis treatment some developmental (Hirschsprung disease) disorders.