P2X receptors in the gut

Abstract

AbstractPurinergic transmission, which uses ATP and its derivatives as extracellular signaling molecules, is widely distributed throughout all tissues and systems, including the gastrointestinal system. Ionotropic P2X purinoceptors have been identified in various parts of the enteric nervous system, including myenteric, submucosal motor, sensory, and secretomotor neurones, in enteric glial cells and interstitial cells of Cajal. Purinergic mechanosensory transduction, where there is release of ATP from mucosal epithelial cells during distension, stimulating subepithelial nerve endings of intrinsic and extrinsic sensory nerves to modulate peristalsis and initiate nociception. Purinergic signaling in the gut is involved in development, aging, and regeneration of the gut, and the pathophysiology of enteric purinergic signaling in diseases including irritable bowel syndrome, postoperative ileus, esophageal reflux, constipation, diarrhea, diabetes, Chaga's and Hirschprung's diseases. WIREs Membr Transp Signal 2012,1:269–279. doi: 10.1002/wmts.16For further resources related to this article, please visit the WIREs website.