Abdominal Neurons: Key Players in the Gut-Brain Connection

Researchers at Caltech have discovered two types of neurons in the abdomens of mice that control different aspects of digestion, highlighting the role of specialized neurons in the gut-brain connection. This study, published in Nature, suggests that these neurons, part of the sympathetic nervous system, can send specific messages to internal organs, affecting functions like enzyme production and gut motility. The findings could lead to targeted drug therapies for conditions like high blood pressure and irritable bowel syndrome, with fewer side effects.