Neuropeptides in the autonomic nervous system

Abstract

This review will concern itself with recent advances in our knowledge about the anatomy, cellular distribution, and proposed function of neuropeptides in the peripheral nervous system. In particular, the concept of co-storage and co-release of neuropeptides with conventional neurotransmitters will be dealt with in regard to their known distribution in the three broad divisions of the autonomic nervous system: sensory neurons, autonomic neurons, and the adrenal medulla. The proposed physiological functions of the peptides in these three systems will be reviewed.