"Revolutionizing Gut Neuroscience: Unveiling the Surprising Role of Newly Discovered Neurons"

Scientists have discovered that the development of the enteric nervous system (ENS), which plays a crucial role in digestion, immunity, and brain-gut communication, continues after birth in mice and humans. This overturns the previous belief that ENS development stops before birth. The study reveals that a significant number of post-birth enteric neurons have a surprising mesodermal origin, which has implications for understanding maturation, aging, and disease in the ENS. The newly discovered lineage of neurons presents potential new drug targets for treating age-associated digestive issues.