Chemogenetic activation of noradrenergic A5 neurons increases blood pressure and visceral sympathetic activity in adult rats.

ABSTRACT: In mammals, the pontine noradrenergic system influences nearly every aspect of central nervous system function. A subpopulation of pontine noradrenergic neurons, called A5, are thought to be important in the cardiovascular response to physical stressors, yet their function is poorly defined. We hypothesized that activation of A5 neurons drives a sympathetically mediated increase in blood pressure (BP). To test this hypothesis, we conducted a comprehensive assessment of the cardiovascular effects of chemogenetic stimulation of A5 neurons in male and female adult rats using intersectional genetic and anatomical targeting approaches. Chemogenetic stimulation of A5 neurons in freely behaving rats elevated BP by 15 mmHg and increased cardiac baroreflex sensitivity with a negligible effect on re

SUBMITTER: Souza GMPR 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9602699 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature