During development of the digestive system, a complex network of nerves forms around it, creating a “second brain”—the enteric nervous system (ENS)—which controls the movement of food and waste through the gut. But a combination of changes in the molecular letters making up certain genetic instructions can prevent these nerves from developing properly, leading to Hirschsprung disease (HSCR), a painful and often dangerous condition in which babies develop intestinal blockage and are unable to pass stool.
This article was originally published on MedicalXpress.com
