Schwann Cell Precursors In The Aganglionic Segment Of Hirschsprung Disease Have A Capacity To Generate Neurons In The Gut

INTRODUCTION: Cell therapy offers the potential to replace missing neurons in the distal bowel of Hirschsprung disease (HSCR) by transplanting neural progenitor cells to restore gut function. Schwann cell precursors (SCPs) have recently been shown to possess a capacity to generate neurons in the intestine. However, it is unknown whether SCPs can be isolated from the aganglionic segment of HSCR and whether they can be used for cell-based therapy.