"The Second Brain: A Paradigm Shift in Fundamental Biology"

Researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center have discovered that the development of the enteric nervous system (ENS), often referred to as the second brain, continues after birth and includes neurons derived from the mesoderm, challenging long-held scientific beliefs. This groundbreaking finding opens up new possibilities for potential treatments for aging and gastrointestinal diseases. The study also identified new cellular markers and pharmacological targets that could be used to manipulate the proportions of mesodermal neurons and potentially provide disease-modifying cures for patients with GI tract diseases.