The selectivity of descending vasomotor control by subretrofacial neurons

Abstract

The notion that neurons in the rostral ventrolateral medulla play an important part in cardiovascular control is now widely accepted. This chapter focuses on a compact group of spinally projecting neurons termed as the “subretrofacial nucleus” (SRF) and argues that this set of neurons is responsible for mediating the region's vasopressor actions. It also presets evidence that SRF neurons selectively drive cardiovascular sympathetic nerves—that is, to heart, blood vessels and, adrenal medulla. The chapter presents data that support the view that within SRF there are neural subpopulations with even greater specificity of action and that these may be functionally dedicated to control vasomotor ..