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Neuronal messengers in the human cerebral circulation
S Gulbenkian1, R Uddman, L Edvinsson
1Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, Oeiras, Portugal.
Peptides
|June 8, 2001
Summary
Recent studies reveal new nerve fibers and transmitters, including nitric oxide (NO), control cerebral blood flow. This expands our understanding of cerebrovascular neurotransmission mechanisms.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Vascular Biology
- Neuropharmacology
Background:
- Cerebral circulation is regulated by complex neural pathways.
- Traditional understanding of neurotransmitters in cerebral vessels is evolving.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in understanding the nervous control of cerebral circulation.
- To highlight the role of novel neurotransmitters in cerebrovascular regulation.
Main Methods:
- Denervation techniques
- Retrograde tracing
- Immunohistochemical analysis
Main Results:
- Cerebral vessels are innervated by sympathetic, parasympathetic, and sensory nerve fibers.
- Multiple novel transmitter substances, predominantly neuropeptides, are identified.
- Nitric oxide (NO) is proposed as a gaseous transmitter in neuronal regulation of cerebral blood flow.
Conclusions:
- The presence of diverse neurotransmitters necessitates a revised view of cerebrovascular neurotransmission.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the physiological actions and interactions of these transmitters.