Recent advances in the development of enteric nervous system

Enteric nervous system (ENS) is comprised of a network of neurons and glial cells, arising from enteric neural crest-derived cells and undergoing proliferation, migration and differentiation to form various types of intestinal cells with the participation of various cytokines and signaling molecules. Various neurotransmitters and neuropeptides are synthesized for regulating the function of intestinal tract. Developmental disorder of embryonic enteric nervous system is a major causative factor of Hirschsprung’s disease (HSCR). In recent years, development of enteric nervous system has great advances in understanding the signaling pathway and its relationship with HSCR. It provides useful rationales for treating HSCR. Key words: Enteric nervous system; Neural stem cell; Signaling Pathway