Are thoracic CSF-contacting neurons part of the sympathetic nervous system in charge of vascular tone control? – SYMPA-CSFcNeurons

The autonomic nervous system (ANS), that regulates involuntary body functions divides into the parasympathetic (PANS) and sympathetic nervous system (SANS). The output from the SANS is through sympathetic preganglionic neurons (SPNs) lying in the thoracolumbar part of the spinal cord (SC). Highly specialized neurons, the cerebrospinal fluid-contacting neurons (CSF-cNs), present around the central canal in the spinal cord, have been recently described as a novel sensory system intrinsic to the central nervous system. Based on our preliminary data unrevealing synaptic connections between SPNs and thoracic CSF-cNs, we propose to shed light on a possible complex circuitry between CSF-cNs and SANS neurons involved in sensing metabolic changes and maintaining homeostasis. For this purpose, we will combine electrophysiological recordings, optogenetic stimulations and in vivo non-invasive recordings of blood pressure and heart rate in mice.