Effect of capsaicin on the nerve elements of the small intestine.

The effect of capsaicin treatment on the nerve elements of the small intestine has been investigated in newborn cats. Degeneration of numerous nerve processes could be observed after capsaicin treatment. Some of these nerve fibres were found in pre- and in postsynaptic situation. A few cell somata were also severely damaged after capsaicin treatment. No such degeneration was observed in the control animals. On the basis of the capsaicin effect is assumed that some of the degenerated nerve terminals might be responsible for the intrinsic sensory innervation of the small intestine.