Epithelial acetylcholine - a new paradigm for cholinergic regulation of intestinal fluid and electrolyte transport

摘要

A primary function of the colonic epithelium is to transport fluid and electrolytes to and from the lumen. Absorption normally predominates and is necessary for conservation of the large volumes of water that enter the intestine each day. On the other hand secretion, driven mainly by Cl~ secretion, is important for hydration of the mucosal surface and maintenance of barrier function. The balance between absorptive and secretory processes is dynamic and can rapidly change either in response to normal physiological stimuli or as a consequence of disease. Central to the regulation of intestinal water transport is acetylcholine (ACh), the predominant neurotransmitter of the enteric nervous system.