Nitrergic and purinergic mechanisms evoke inhibitory neuromuscular transmission in the human small intestine

D. Gallego, C. Malagelada, A. Accarino, R. De Giorgio, J. R. Malagelada, F. Azpiroz, M. Jimenez

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleResearchpeer-review

28 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Background: Inhibitory neuromuscular transmission in the human colon is due to nitrergic and purinergic (P2Y 1 -mediated) inputs. The aim of this study was to determine the mechanisms of neuromuscular transmission in different regions of the human small intestine. Methods: Ileal (n = 6) and jejunal (n = 6) samples underwent histological examination and were studied using sharp microelectrodes in smooth muscle cells and conventional muscle bath techniques. Electrical field stimulation (EFS) was used to stimulate inhibitory neurons. Key Results: No histological abnormalities were found. Resting membrane potential was -39.7 ± 1.5 and -45.5 ± 2.1 mV in the jejunum and ileum, respectively. Slow waves and spontaneous contractions were recorded at a frequency of about 8-9 and 6-7 cpm in the jejunum and ileum, respectively. In non-adrenergic, non-cholinergic conditions, EFS caused an inhibitory junction potential and mechanical relaxation. Both responses were blocked by tissue incubation with the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor (Nω-nitro-l-arginine 1 mM) and the P2Y 1 receptor blocker 2′-deoxy-N 6 -methyladenosine 3′,5′-bisphosphate tetrasodium salt (MRS2179; 10 μM). Both exogenous addition of sodium nitroprusside (1 μM) and the preferential P2Y 1 receptor agonist ADPβS (1 μM) hyperpolarized and relaxed smooth muscle cells. MRS2179 (10 μM) blocked ADPβS-induced responses. Conclusions & Inferences: Similar to colon, inhibitory neurotransmission in the human small intestine is mainly mediated by purinergic (via P2Y 1 receptors) and nitrergic inhibitory neurotransmission. Similar mechanisms of inhibitory neurotransmission are present in different regions of the human intestine. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)419-429
JournalNeurogastroenterology and Motility
Volume26
Issue number3
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Mar 2014

Keywords

  • IJP
  • Ileum
  • Jejunum
  • P2Y receptors 1
  • Purinergic

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Nitrergic and purinergic mechanisms evoke inhibitory neuromuscular transmission in the human small intestine'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this