Role of spinal neurons in the maintenance of elevated sympathetic activity: a novel therapeutic target?

Abstract

The control of sympathetic vasomotor activity involves a complex network within the brain and spinal circuits. An extensive range of studies has indicated that sympathoexcitation is a common feature in several cardiovascular diseases and that strategies to reduce sympathetic vasomotor overactivity in such conditions can be beneficial. In the present mini-review, we present evidence supporting the spinal cord as a potential therapeutic target to mitigate sympathetic vasomotor overactivity in cardiovascular diseases, focusing mainly on the actions of spinal angiotensin II on the control of sympathetic preganglionic neuronal activity.