Neuropeptide Y and peptide YY in the colon of humans with paradoxical fecal incontinence

The distribution and occurrence of neuropeptide Y (NPY), peptide Y (PYY), and NPY Y1 receptor,
within neuronal elements and neuroendocrine cells (NC) in mucosal and submucosallayers of colon in the region of linea pectinea and 10 cm from the anusin nine children with paradoxical fecal
incontinence, were detected by biotin-avidin histochemistry. Control biopsies were obtained from
one child during polipoextirpation.
A moderate number of NPY/PYY immunoreactive NC, and scarce immunoreactive nervefibres,
were seen in the biopsies in five children. However, a rich supply of NPY/PYY nerves was displayed around the lymphatic noduli. In the other four cases, and in control cases, few NPY/PYY
NC andrich immunoreactive innervation were detected in the biopsies. In all cases, no specific
immunoreactive innervation was found in the glandulocytes, in smooth muscle, and in the wall of
blood vessels.
The results suggested alteration of colon dysmotility, epithelial barrier functions and local immune
response, in children with paradoxical fecal incontinence. These alterations did not depend on
age and place of biopsy.