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Detection of G Protein-coupled Receptor Expression in Mouse Vagal Afferent Neurons using Multiplex In Situ Hybridization
Published on: September 20, 2021
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Cardiac vagal motor neurons
Yoko Brigitte Wang1, Sandy E Saunders1, John N Campbell2
1Dalton Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Missouri, Columbia 65211, MO, USA; Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA.
Current Opinion in Neurobiology
|June 26, 2025
Summary
Recent advances reveal new insights into cardiac vagal motor neurons (CVNs) subtypes and circuitry. Targeting CVNs shows therapeutic potential for cardiometabolic and mental health disorders.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cardiology
- Autonomic Nervous System Research
Background:
- Cardiac vagal motor neurons (CVNs) are crucial for autonomic control of heart function.
- Understanding of CVNs has significantly advanced in the last decade due to technological progress.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent progress in CVN research, including subtypes, neural circuits, and disease roles.
- To highlight the therapeutic potential of targeting CVNs in various conditions.
- To identify current challenges and future directions in the field.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent scientific literature and technological advancements in neuroscience.
- Analysis of genetic markers for CVN subpopulations (CVNNA).
- Investigation into the roles of CVNs in the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus (CVNDMV).
Main Results:
- Identification of genetic markers for CVN subpopulations in the nucleus ambiguus (CVNNA).
- Clarification of controversial roles of CVNs in the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus (CVNDMV).
- Dissection of complex CVN-related neural circuitry and expanded roles in disease pathophysiology.
Conclusions:
- Recent research has significantly advanced the understanding of CVN subtypes, circuitry, and their involvement in cardiometabolic and mental health disorders.
- Targeting CVNs presents a promising therapeutic strategy for a range of diseases.
- Further research is needed to address current challenges and fully realize the potential of CVN-based therapies.
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