The contribution of the sonic hedgehog cascade in the development of the enteric nervous system in fetal rats with anorectal malformations

This study demonstrates reduced expression of Shh and its target genes in ARMs in ETU-exposed fetal rats. Neurons in the myenteric plexus were decreased in high and low types of ARMs. Our results support a role for the Shh cascade during development of the ENS during hindgut development.