Serine proteases excite myenteric neurons through protease-activated receptors in guinea pig small intestine.

Background & Aims: Serine proteases are postulated to influence gastrointestinal function by stimulating protease-activated receptors (PARs). This study identified the effects on myenteric neurons of activating PARs and investigated underlying mechanisms of action.

Methods: Intracellular electrophysiologic methods were used to study the effects of proteases on electrical and synaptic behavior of morphologically identified neurons in the guinea pig enteric nervous system.