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Perivascular Innervation: A Multiplicity of Roles in Vasomotor Control and Myoendothelial Signaling
Author(s) -
Westcott Erika B.,
Segal Steven S.
Publication year - 2013
Publication title -
microcirculation
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.793
H-Index - 83
eISSN - 1549-8719
pISSN - 1073-9688
DOI - 10.1111/micc.12035
Subject(s) - autacoid , vasoconstriction , neuroscience , vasomotor , vasodilation , biology , endothelium , neurotransmission , cholinergic , purinergic receptor , vasoconstrictor agents , anatomy , microbiology and biotechnology , endocrinology , receptor , extracellular , biochemistry
The control of vascular resistance and tissue perfusion reflect coordinated changes in the diameter of feed arteries and the arteriolar networks they supply. Against a background of myogenic tone and metabolic demand, vasoactive signals originating from perivascular sympathetic and sensory nerves are integrated with endothelium‐derived signals to produce vasodilation or vasoconstriction. PVN s release adrenergic, cholinergic, peptidergic, purinergic, and nitrergic neurotransmitters that lead to SMC contraction or relaxation via their actions on SMC s, EC s, or other PVN s. EC s release autacoids that can have opposing actions on SMC s. Respective cell layers are connected directly to each other through GJ s at discrete sites via MEJ s projecting through holes in the IEL . Whereas studies of intercellular communication in the vascular wall have centered on endothelium‐derived signals that govern SMC relaxation, attention has increasingly focused on signaling from SMC s to EC s. Thus, via MEJ s, neurotransmission from PVN s can evoke distinct responses from EC s subsequent to acting on SMC s. To integrate this emerging area of investigation in light of vasomotor control, the present review synthesizes current understanding of signaling events that originate within SMC s in response to perivascular neurotransmission in light of EC feedback. Although often ignored in studies of the resistance vasculature, PVN s are integral to blood flow control and can provide a physiological stimulus for myoendothelial communication. Greater understanding of these underlying signaling events and how they may be affected by aging and disease will provide new approaches for selective therapeutic interventions.