Interstitial cells of Cajal and purinergic signalling

Interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC) in the guinea pig intestine, identified by the tyrosine kinase receptor, c-Kit, have been shown with immunohistochemistry to express nucleotide P2X(2), and P2X(5) receptors P2X(5) receptors have also been demonstrated on interstitial cells in the mouse ileum. It is speculated that release of ATP from enteric nerves. enteric glial cells or from contracting smooth muscle may provide a feedback mechanism for pacemaker activity in the intestine. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.