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Patterning of sympathetic nerve activity in response to vestibular stimulationGrowing evidence suggests a role for the vestibular system in regulation of autonomic outflow during postural adjustments. In the present paper we review evidence for the patterning of sympathetic nerve activity elicited by vestibular stimulation. In response to electrical activation of vestibular afferents, firing of sympathetic nerves located throughout the body is altered. However, activity of the renal nerve is most sensitive to vestibular inputs. In contrast, high-intensity simultaneous activation of cutaneous and muscle inputs elicits equivalent changes in firing of the renal, superior mesenteric and lumbar colonic nerves. Responses of muscle vasoconstrictor (MVC) efferents to vestibular stimulation are either inhibitory (Type I) or are comprised of a combination of excitation and inhibition (Type II). Interestingly, single MVC units located in the hindlimb exhibited predominantly Type I responses while those located in the forelimb and face exhibited Type II responses. Furthermore, brachial and femoral arterial blood flows were dissociated in response to vestibular stimulation, such that brachial vascular resistance increased while femoral resistance decreased. These studies demonstrate that vestibulosympathetic reflexes are patterned according to both the anatomical location and innervation target of a particular sympathetic nerve, and can lead to distinct changes in local blood flow.
Document ID
20040112719
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Kerman, I. A.
(University of Pittsburgh Pittsburgh, PA 15213, United States)
McAllen, R. M.
Yates, B. J.
Date Acquired
August 21, 2013
Publication Date
September 1, 2000
Publication Information
Publication: Brain research bulletin
Volume: 53
Issue: 1
ISSN: 0361-9230
Subject Category
Life Sciences (General)
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: P01 DC03417
CONTRACT_GRANT: R01 DC00693
CONTRACT_GRANT: R01 DC03732
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other
Keywords
NASA Discipline Neuroscience
Review, Tutorial
Review
Non-NASA Center

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