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Updated: Feb 26, 2026
Author Spotlight: Hypothalamic Neural Mechanism Insights
Published on: August 4, 2023
Neural control of sweat secretion: a review
Y Hu1, C Converse1, M C Lyons1
1Department of Biomedical Sciences, Iowa State University, 1800 S. 16th Street, Ames, IA, 50011-1250, U.S.A.
Neural pathways control human sweat secretion via the central and autonomic nervous systems. Understanding these mechanisms is key to addressing sweating disorders like hypohidrosis and hyperhidrosis.
Area of Science:
- Physiology
- Neuroscience
- Dermatology
Background:
- Humans possess millions of exocrine sweat glands (eccrine and apocrine) crucial for thermoregulation and metabolism.
- Sweat secretion is a continuous process regulated by the central nervous system (CNS) and autonomic nervous system (ANS).
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the neural control mechanisms of sweat secretion by the CNS and ANS.
- To elucidate the specific pathways and molecular players involved in sweat gland function.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search was performed on PubMed.
- Included English-language reports published between January 1, 1950, and December 31, 2016.
Main Results:
- Acetylcholine, released by sympathetic nerves, is a primary stimulator of sweat secretion.
- Beta-adrenoceptors in apocrine glands may mediate lipid secretion, contributing to sweat composition.
- Calcium (Ca2+) and cyclic adenosine monophosphate are vital for apocrine gland secretion; aquaporin 5 translocation is key for eccrine glands.
Conclusions:
- Dysfunction of the ANS, particularly the sympathetic nervous system, can lead to sweating disorders such as hypohidrosis and hyperhidrosis.
- Neural regulation of sweat secretion involves complex interactions between neurotransmitters, receptors, and ion channels.
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