Integrative Properites of Intrinsic Sensory Neurons of the Intestine [ 2001 - 2002 ]

Research Grant

Researchers: Prof John Furness (Principal investigator) ,  Wolfgang Kunze (Principal investigator) ,  Dr Nadine Clerc

Brief description For the neuronal control of the intestine to be appropriate to the constantly changing state of the organ, it is essential that there is feedback concerning, amongst other things, distension by its contents and its contractile state. These properties of the intestine are monitored by intrinsic sensory neurons, which are very special sensory cells, because they are embedded in the wall of the organ that they control. They have only very recently been identified, and thus surprisingly little is known about how they perform their functions. It is clear, however, that they have special ways of integrating information about their environment, and the activities of other neurons, that are not shared by any other sensory neurons identified to the present time. Thus investigation of these neurons will provide information that is almost completely lacking about how the intestine performs its tasks. This information will be valuable in defining targets for development of therapeutic compounds and in analysing disorders of intestinal motility.

Funding Amount $AUD 211,681.68

Funding Scheme NHMRC Project Grants

Notes Standard Project with Research Fellowship