Brain-derived neurotrophic factor enhances the contraction of intestinal muscle strips induced by SP and CGRP in mice

► We examine the physiologic role of BDNF synergistic with SP/CGRP on mouse gut motility. ► We clarify the excitatory effects of SP and bilateral effects of CGRP on the contraction of LM strips. ► Pretreatment with exogenous BDNF enhances the contraction of LM strips induced by SP and CGRP. ► Reduction of endogenous BDNF attenuated the contraction of LM strips induced by SP and CGRP. ► BDNF accelerates gut motility by enhancing the excitatory effects of SP/CGRP.