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New insights into central cardiovascular control during exercise in humans: a central command update
J W Williamson1, P J Fadel, J H Mitchell
1Department of Kinesiology, Health Promotion & Recreation Univeristy of North Texas, Denton, TX 76203-1337, USA. jwilliamson@coe.unt.edu
Experimental Physiology
|October 22, 2005
Summary
Central command, originating in the brain, and the exercise pressor reflex from muscles drive autonomic adjustments during exercise. This review focuses on brain regions influencing cardiovascular responses.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Physiology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Autonomic nervous system adjustments during exercise involve central command, the exercise pressor reflex, and baroreflex modulation.
- Central command, descending signals from higher brain centers, has been recognized for over a century but specific brain regions remain unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current understanding of central command in humans.
- To emphasize brain regions identified in altering autonomic outflow and cardiovascular adjustments during exercise.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature and brain mapping studies during exercise and non-exercise conditions.
Main Results:
- Brain mapping studies are beginning to identify specific cerebral cortical structures involved in cardiovascular control during exercise.
- Central command plays a crucial role in initiating and modulating cardiovascular responses to physical activity.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the specific brain regions involved in central command is key to comprehending exercise-related autonomic control.
- Further research into central command's neural pathways will elucidate cardiovascular regulation during physical exertion.
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