Prox2+ and Runx3+ vagal sensory neurons regulate esophageal motility
Schedule
Wednesday, March 1, 2023
17:00 UTC
Elijah Lowenstein
Birchmeier lab, Max Delbrück Center
Host: WWNeuRise
Recording
Open recording
Event Information
Recording
Available
Host
WWNeuRise
Duration
35 minutes
Abstract
Sensory neurons of the vagus nerve monitor distention and stretch in the gastrointestinal tract. We used genetically guided anatomical tracing, optogenetics and electrophysiology to identify and characterize two vagal sensory neuronal subtypes expressing Prox2 and Runx3. We show that these neuronal subtypes innervate the esophagus where they display regionalized innervation patterns. Electrophysiological analyses showed that they are both low threshold mechanoreceptors but possess different adaptation properties. Lastly, genetic ablation of Prox2 and Runx3 neurons demonstrated their essential roles for esophageal peristalsis and swallowing in freely behaving animals. Our work reveals the identity and function of the vagal neurons that provide mechanosensory feedback from the esophagus to the brain and could lead to better understanding and treatment of esophageal motility disorders.
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