The function of our internal organs is determined primarily by the neurons innervating these structures. Information about events occurring in our visceral organs needs to be efficiently captured and conveyed to the central nervous system. For example, the recognition of noxious and non-noxious stimuli and the communication of visceral neurons with the immune system, endocrine system, or microbiota are essential for maintaining whole-body homeostasis. The extrinsic nervous system (vagal and spinal neurons) actively interacts between our viscera and brain. The gut also has its own intrinsic neural network, known as the enteric neuron system, which controls intestinal motility, digestion, and barrier defense independently of the central nervous system. Tools that selectively target visceral neurons are of utmost importance for understanding the pathophysiology of our internal organs. This collection aims to provide researchers and professionals in gastroenterology with comprehensive techniques to study neuronal function innervating visceral organs (both in animals and humans). The collection seeks to unite classical and novel essential tools to explore visceral neurons in physiological and pathological conditions and ultimately bring our understanding to a clinical level. We especially encourage the submission of methods covering, but not limited to, visceral neuronal tracing (retrograde and anterograde), neuron isolation, imaging/visualization, synapse quantification, interaction with other cell types or microbes in the viscera, and toolbox analysis.
Seeing Acupuncture Regulating Visceral Pain with Calcium Imaging
Xinyan Gao*1
1Institute of Acupuncture, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences