Work

Descriptive analysis of the celiac ganglia in female rats: an asymmetrical pair with distinct neuronal pathways

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Exploring the neural control of mammalian abdominal visceral organs requires an understanding of celiac ganglia anatomy. In this study, Long-Evans rats were investigated to elucidate the detailed anatomical organization of the right celiac ganglion (RCG) and left celiac ganglion (LCG), their connections with other prevertebral ganglia, and the morphometry of their postganglionic neuronal components. Twenty adult female rats were divided into two experimental groups: one examined for macroscopic anatomical features, including gross anatomy (n = 10) and histochemical properties (acetylcholinesterase n = 3); the other for celiac ganglia microanatomy, using histological techniques (n = 4) and scanning electron microscopy (n = 3). The RCG presented as pyriform-shaped or spindle-shaped (average length, 2.9 ± 0.6 mm; average width, 0.8 ± 0.2 mm), and included six primary nerves and five accessory nerves. The LCG was sickle-shaped (average length, 6.8 ± 1.0 mm; average width, 1.03 ± 0.1 mm), and included seven primary nerves and three accessory nerves. The RCG and LCG were connected by a short nerve trunk, or three long commissural branches, comprising unmyelinated nerve fibers, peripheral glial cells, and Remak Schwann cells. Nerves of the RCG and LCG innervate abdominal organs and form interganglionic connections, anastomosing with the left and right suprarenal ganglia and the superior mesenteric ganglia, together constituting a nerve plexus. The celiac ganglia are bilateral, with morphologically and topographically asymmetrical components. Commissural bundles support, protect, and facilitate communication between the intra-ganglionic components. • The CG is bilateral but asymmetrical in morphology and topography. • A short nerve trunk connects to the CG. • The short nerve trunk is made up of unmyelinated nerve fibers and peripheral glial cells. • The main and accessory nerves of the CG connect to form the celiac plexus.

Source: Translational Research in Anatomy

DOI: 10.1016/j.tria.2026.100463

Authors: César Pastelín Rojas, María-Esmeralda Rivera Castro, Juan-Manuel Bravo Benítez, Yolanda Cruz Gómez, Carolina Morán Raya

Institutions: Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, Universidad Autónoma de Tlaxcala

Language: English

Topic: Classical Anatomy and Histology

Subfield: Anatomy

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,470