A functional role for the ‘fibroblast‐like cells’ in gastrointestinal smooth muscles

• DOI: 10.1113/jphysiol.2010.201129
• Publication Date: 2010-12-21T05:50:52Z
• Authors: Masaaki Kurahashi; Haifeng Zheng; Laura Dwyer; Sean M. Ward; Sang Don Koh; Kenton M. Sanders
• Keywords: Cell type

Smooth muscles, as in the gastrointestinal tract, are composed of several types cells. Gastrointestinal muscles contain smooth muscle cells, enteric neurons, glial immune and various classes interstitial One type cell, referred to 'fibroblast-like cells' by morphologists, common, but their function is unknown. These cells found near terminals motor suggesting they could have a role generating neural responses that help control movements. We used novel mouse with bright green fluorescent protein expressed specifically fibroblast-like us identify these mixture obtained when whole dispersed enzymes. isolated respond major class inhibitory neurotransmitters - purines. characterized responses, our results provide new hypothesis about tissues.