Decreased expression of β1 integrin in enteric neural crest cells of the endothelin receptor B null mouse model

Study demonstrates that β1 integrin expression is significantly reduced in enteric neural crest cells of endothelin receptor B knockout mice, which develop aganglionic colon similar to Hirschsprung disease. Findings suggest impaired integrin-ECM interactions may disrupt normal enteric nervous system development and contribute to disease pathogenesis.