Potential of stem cell therapy to treat Hirschsprung's disease

Summary Stem cell therapy, where missing enteric neurons are replaced, is an exciting area area of research. In this project, we are using a rat model of Hirschsprung Disease to investigate the clinical application of cell therapy for Hirschsprung patients.

Project Details

Hirschsprung's Disease arises from the failure of neural crest cells to migrate to the anal end of the colon, resulting in a lack of enteric neurons in the unpopulated region. As the enteric nervous system (ENS) is crucial for gastrointestinal function, there is no propulsive activity in the aganglionic region and there is a build-up of gut contents, which can prove fatal if left untreated. HSCR patients currently undergo "pull-through" surgery to remove the aganglionic region of bowel. Whilst this is life-saving, most patients suffer chronic, long-term complications, including constipation, faecal soiling, and associated psychosocial problems.    Stem cell therapy, where missing enteric neurons are replaced, is an exciting area area of research. In this project, we are using a rat model of Hirschsprung Disease to investigate the clinical application of cell therapy for Hirschsprung patients.