Uncovering the neurochemical basis of colonic water absorption

Constipation and diarrhea, caused by aberrant water absorption in the colon, impose substantial health burdens. The enteric nervous system (ENS) harbors a specialized circuit for water absorption, the secretomotor/vasodilator circuit, but its role in the proximal colon remains poorly understood. Secretagogin (Scgn), a calcium binding protein, is highly expressed in proximal colon secretomotor/vasodilator neurons. This project will elucidate neurotransmitter usage and function within this circuit, map Scgn-expressing neurons and investigate Scgn's role in regulating colonic epithelial ion flux and water absorption. Understanding the secretomotor/vasodilator circuit’s functions in the colon will aid novel approaches for managing diarrhea and constipation.