A 'Second Brain' in the Gut Could Be Driving Constipation and Pain

A mouse study identified a Pdyn-expressing neuron group in the colon that may influence both gut movement and pain.

When activated, these neurons helped move fecal pellets in isolated colons and triggered pain-like behaviors in living mice.

The findings suggest a shared neural pathway for constipation and abdominal discomfort.

Researchers say the work could point to new targets for treating constipation-related pain.