Purpose of review: We present recent advances in understanding of the role of vasopressin as a neurotransmitter in autonomic nervous system control of the circulation, emphasizing hypothalamic mechanisms in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) involved in controlling sympathetic outflow toward the cardiovascular system.
Recent findings: Suggest that somato-dendritically released vasopressin modulates the activity of magnocellular neurons in the PVN and SON, their discharge pattern and systemic release. Advances have been made in uncovering autocrine and paracrine mechanisms controlling presympathetic neuron activity, involving intranuclear receptors, co-released neuroactive substances and glia. It is now obvious that intranuclear release of vasopressin and the co-release of neuroactive substances in the PVN, as well as the level of expression of vasopressin receptors, modulate sympathetic outflow to the cardiovascular system and determine vulnerability to stress. Further research involving patho-physiological models is needed to validate these targets and foster the development of more efficient treatment.
Keywords: Autonomic control; Blood pressure; Magnocellular neurons; Paraventricular nucleus; Somato-dendritic release; Vasopressin.