PhD Scientific Days 2026

Poster Session 2.C - Molecular Medicine

A Novel Perspective in Enteric Glia Research: Development and Lumbosacral Origin of Mucosal SOX10⁺ Cells in Experimental Models

Name of the presenter

Gáspár-Halasy, Viktória

Institute/workplace of the presenter

Semmelweis University, Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology

Authors

Viktória Gáspár-Halasy¹, Zsanna Gecse¹, Emőke Szőcs¹, Ádám Soós¹, Csenge Jurenka¹, Bettina Kaczur¹, Nándor Nagy¹
1: Semmelweis University, Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology

Text of the abstract

Introduction:
The development of the enteric nervous system (ENS) relies on the precise migration, proliferation, and differentiation of neural crest–derived cells (NCCs). Disruption of these processes leads to severe congenital disorders such as Hirschsprung disease. Although classically defined by the absence of enteric ganglion cells in the distal bowel, accumulating evidence highlights a critical role for enteric glial cells in both pathogenesis and regenerative strategies.
Aims:
The aim of this study was to investigate the origin and differentiation potential of type III SOX10⁺ mucosal glial cells located in the colonic lamina propria.
Methods:
Embryonic manipulation models (chick–quail chimeras) and transgenic mouse lines were applied. The distribution and emergence of mucosal glial cells were analyzed using double immunofluorescence labeling with glial-, neuronal and precursor markers (SOX10, S100β, TUJ1, PHOX2B) during different developmental stages and in pathological experimental conditions.
Results:
Mucosal glial cells were found not to originate from the classical cervical NCC population. Instead, a lumbosacral source was identified, with cells migrating into the gut wall along extrinsic nerve fibers and undergoing local differentiation. Appearance during embryonic development was confirmed, followed by the establishment of a stable population within the lamina propria, showing increasing density toward the distal colon. The presence of S100β⁺ glial cells in aganglionic segments of Hirschsprung disease further supports their ENS-independent derivation.
Conclusion:
A distinct embryonic origin of mucosal glial cells is indicated when compared to ganglionic and muscular glial populations. Recognition of this divergence emphasizes the complexity of ENS development and suggests potential new directions for cell-based therapeutic approaches in Hirschsprung disease.
Funding:
NKFI K-138664; 2024-2.1.1-EKÖP-2024-00004
E-mail:
halasy.viktoria@semmelweis.hu
University:
Semmelweis University
Supervisor:
Prof. Dr. Nándor Nagy