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Neural mechanisms of emesis
1Wadsworth Center for Laboratories and Research, New York State Department of Health and School of Public Health, Albany 12237.
Canadian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology
|February 1, 1990
Summary
The emesis reflex expels ingested toxins via neuronal or humoral pathways. A central pattern generator in the nucleus tractus solitarius likely controls this complex motor function, integrating signals from the area postrema and vagus nerve.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Physiology
Background:
- Emesis (vomiting) is a protective reflex to eliminate ingested toxins.
- This reflex can be triggered by direct neuronal signals or circulating humoral factors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the neural pathways and central mechanisms controlling the emesis reflex.
- To understand the integration of different emetic signaling routes within the brainstem.
Main Methods:
- The study reviews existing literature on the neuroanatomy and neurophysiology of emesis.
- It analyzes the roles of the area postrema, nucleus tractus solitarius, and vagus nerve in the emetic reflex.
Main Results:
- Humoral emesis relies on the area postrema, while gastrointestinal afferent emesis involves the nucleus tractus solitarius.
- A central pattern generator in the nucleus tractus solitarius is proposed to coordinate the motor sequences of emesis.
Conclusions:
- The nucleus tractus solitarius acts as a crucial integration center for the emesis reflex.
- This central pattern generator coordinates signals from both humoral and visceral pathways to elicit vomiting.