Submucosal cholinergic neuron

Submucosal cholinergic neurons are a specialized population of neurons located within the submucosal (Meissner's) plexus of the enteric nervous system (ENS) (Source: 1.2.1, 1.2.2). These neurons function primarily as excitatory secretomotor neurons, regulating the transport of water and electrolytes across the intestinal epithelium and controlling local blood flow through vasodilation (Source: 1.2.1, 1.2.2). Upon activation, they release acetylcholine, which binds to muscarinic receptors (primarily M3) on mucosal cells to stimulate chloride and water secretion (Source: 1.1.1, 1.3.1). They play a significant role in the pathophysiology of secretory diarrheas, such as those induced by cholera toxin, which causes sustained hyperexcitability in these neurons (Source: 1.2.3, 1.2.5). Additionally, they are the target of stimulant laxatives like sennosides, which excite these neurons to promote bowel movements (Source: 1.1.1, 1.1.2). Dysfunction or hyperexcitability of these neurons is associated with various gastrointestinal disorders, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) (Source: 1.2.2, 1.2.3). Pharmacological modulation of these neurons, either through direct stimulation or inhibition of their cholinergic output, is a key strategy in managing intestinal motility and secretion disorders (Source: 1.3.1, 1.3.3). Markers such as choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) and vesicular acetylcholine transporter (VAChT) are used to identify this neuronal population in clinical and research settings (Source: 1.2.1, 1.4.1).

Other names

Submucosal acetylcholinergic neuronCholinergic submucosal neuronSecretomotor neuronSubmucous plexus cholinergic neuron

Stimulation of these neurons leads to the release of acetylcholine, which acts on muscarinic receptors (primarily M3) on epithelial cells to increase chloride and water secretion. Conversely, inhibition of these neurons or their receptors reduces intestinal secretion.