Effects of dietary sodium on sympathetic nervous system control of cardiovascular function

The body of information which characterizes the adaptations in sympathetic nervous system control of cardiovascular function that occur in response to changes in dietary sodium intake is rapidly expanding. Multiple sites within the nervous system have been shown to be sensitive to variations in sodium availability, including the baroreceptors, cardiovascular regulatory centres in the brain, and the peripheral sympathetic neurones. In addition, dietary sodium is known to influence the level of activity of hormonal systems which are capable of modulating sympathetic neuronal function. The hormonal system that has been most widely investigated with respect to interactions with sympathetic neurones is the renin-angiotensin system. Other hormonal systems such as the prostaglandins, kinins, and natriuretic hormone have also been linked to sodium homeostasis. However, much less is known about their role in modulating sympathetic activity in response to alterations in sodium intake. Further elucidation of the interactions between dietary sodium and sympathetic neural control of the cardiovascular system should add significantly to our understanding of the mechanisms involved in cardiovascular regulation.