Age-Dependent Decline of GPR68 and Calretinin-Positive Neurons in the Mucosal Layer of the Human Colon, Excluding the Myenteric Plexus - Report - MDSpire
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Age-Dependent Decline of GPR68 and Calretinin-Positive Neurons in the Mucosal Layer of the Human Colon, Excluding the Myenteric Plexus
Age-Dependent Decline of GPR68 and Calretinin-Positive Neurons in the Colon
Overview
This study investigates the localization and density of GPR68 and calretinin-positive neurons in the human colon, revealing a significant decline in these neurons in older adults. The findings suggest a potential link between aging and the vulnerability of mucosal sensory mechanisms in the colon.
Background
Understanding the distribution of GPR68 and calretinin-positive neurons in the colon is crucial, as these components play roles in gastrointestinal homeostasis and responses to inflammation. Age-related changes in the enteric nervous system may contribute to increased gastrointestinal disorders in older adults, highlighting the importance of this research.
Data Highlights
Parameter
Younger Adults
Older Adults
Calretinin-IR neurons in AC mucosa
9.8 ± 0.5/pixel
3.2 ± 0.1/pixel
Calretinin-IR neurons in DC mucosa
11.5 ± 0.9/pixel
7.4 ± 0.3/pixel
Calretinin-IR neurons in AC MP
1.2 ± 0.3 × 10−3/mm²
0.9 ± 0.2 × 10−3/mm²
Calretinin-IR neurons in DC MP
1.4 ± 0.2 × 10−3/mm²
1.3 ± 0.3 × 10−3/mm²
Key Findings
GPR68 is widely expressed in the mucosa, circular muscle, and myenteric plexus of both ascending and descending colon.
Calretinin-positive neurons in the mucosa significantly decline in older adults compared to younger adults.
The density of GPR68-immunoreactive cells in the mucosa is lower in older adults.
No significant change in the density of total PGP9.5-IR enteric neuronal fibers was observed with age.
Calretinin-IR neurons are suggested to play a role in mucosal sensory and homeostatic functions.
Clinical Implications
The decline in GPR68 and calretinin-positive neurons in the mucosa of older adults may contribute to gastrointestinal disorders prevalent in this population. Clinicians should consider these age-related changes when evaluating and managing gastrointestinal symptoms in older patients.
Conclusion
The study highlights the age-dependent decline of key neuronal populations in the human colon, suggesting implications for gastrointestinal health in older adults. Further research is needed to explore the functional consequences of these changes.
