Molecular Signaling and Dysfunction of the Human Reactive Enteric Glial Cell Phenotype

Abstract

The "rhEGC phenotype" is identified by a complex cascade of pro-inflammatory pathways leading to alterations of important molecular and functional signaling pathways (Ca, purinergic, and mechanosensory) that could disrupt GI motility. Inflammation induced a "purinergic switch" from ATP to adenosine diphosphate/adenosine/uridine triphosphate signaling. Findings have implications for GI infection, inflammatory bowel disease, postoperative ileus, motility, and GI disorders.