A full-term newborn has not passed meconium within the first 48 hours of life and is exhibiting abdominal distension and vomiting. The healthcare provider suspects Hirschsprung's disease. What is the underlying pathophysiologic cause of this condition?

Overstimulation of parasympathetic nerves resulting in rapid bowel transit

Absence of ganglionic nerve cells in a portion of the colon, causing a lack of peristalsis

Obstruction caused by hypertrophy of intestinal smooth muscle

inflammation of the intestinal mucosa leading to motility loss