Journal of Cell Science & Therapy
Open Access

Abstract

Transplantation of Enteric Cells into the Rodent Stomach with Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor

Carrie L. Geisbauer, June C. Chapin, Benjamin M. Wu and James C.Y. Dunn

Enteric cells, isolated from intestinal smooth muscle strips, were transplanted into the syngeneic rodent stomach in collagen gel with and without basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF). While growth factor delivery did not affect cell viability after transplantation, bFGF promoted the formation of numerous ganglion-like structures at the injection site and adjacent muscularis. Immunohistochemistry staining revealed the presence of peripherin, S100, and synaptophysin in these ganglion-like structures. A small percentage of transplanted enteric cells expressed peripherin in the injection site after transplantation. Enteric cells transplanted with collagen and bFGF may hold potential as a cellular therapeutic for various motility disorders of the gastrointestinal tract.