[The sympathetic ganglion--a peripheral neuroendocrine center]

Abstract

Discussion of the data on participation of the autonomous ganglia in integration of the nervous and hormonal signals, and of the evidence of the regulatory role of the cranial cervical sympathetic ganglion (CrCSG) in relation to the thyroid gland and its hypothalamus-hypophysial regulation. In this case the ganglion functions as the hormone-sensitive link in the feedback mechanism, being the compulsory element of the hypothalamus-hypophysial regulating system. The system of regulation of the endocrine glands is interpreted as a multicontour one, including the compensatory mechanisms. The sympathetic contour has a specific place in this system. The role of the CrCSG in the adaptive-trophic function of the autonomous nervous system is emphasized. Unlike other sympathetic ganglia, it is directly linked to the brain sectors responsible for integration of the adaptation processes in an organism.