Age-Dependent Decline of GPR68 and Calretinin-Positive Neurons in the Mucosal Layer of the Human Colon, Excluding the Myenteric Plexus - Scorecard - MDSpire

Age-Dependent Decline of GPR68 and Calretinin-Positive Neurons in the Mucosal Layer of the Human Colon, Excluding the Myenteric Plexus

  • By

  • Nicholas Baidoo

  • Enrica De Rasis

  • Luke Paine

  • David C. Bulmer

  • Gareth J. Sanger

  • April 7, 2026

  • 0 min

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Clinical Scorecard: Age-Dependent Decline of GPR68 and Calretinin-Positive Neurons in the Mucosal Layer of the Human Colon, Excluding the Myenteric Plexus

At a Glance

CategoryDetail
ConditionAge-related decline in GPR68 and calretinin-positive neurons in the colon
Key MechanismsGPR68 detects extracellular pH variations; calretinin-IR neurons are involved in enteric nervous system functions.
Target PopulationOlder adults (≥67 years) and younger adults (≤60 years)
Care SettingClinical settings involving lower bowel cancer resection

Key Highlights

  • GPR68 is widely expressed in the mucosa, circular muscle, and myenteric plexus of the colon.
  • Calretinin-IR neuron density declines in the mucosa of older adults.
  • No significant change in total PGP9.5-IR enteric neuronal fibers with age.
  • Ageing affects the density of calretinin-IR neurons specifically in the mucosal layer.
  • Potential implications for gastrointestinal disorders in older adults.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

  • Consider age-related changes in enteric neuron populations when diagnosing gastrointestinal disorders.

Management

  • Monitor gastrointestinal function in older adults, especially regarding motility and sensory functions.

Monitoring & Follow-up

  • Assess for symptoms of constipation, fecal incontinence, and impaction in older patients.

Risks

  • Increased risk of gastrointestinal disorders due to structural changes in the enteric nervous system.

Patient & Prescribing Data

Older adults with potential gastrointestinal disorders.

Address dietary and fluid intake, and review medications affecting GI motility.

Clinical Best Practices

  • Utilize immunolabelling techniques to assess GPR68 and calretinin-IR neuron densities in clinical research.
  • Incorporate age-related physiological changes into treatment plans for older adults.

References

Original Source(s)

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