Control of the cardiovascular system of Aplysia by identified neurons
Skelton, M.; Alevizos, A.; Koester, J.
Experientia 48(9): 809-817
1992
ISSN/ISBN: 0014-4754 PMID: 1356824 Document Number: 400205
The neural network that controls the cardiovascular system of Aplysia adapts cardiovascular function to a variety of different physiological and behavioral situations. It (1) coordinates the cardiovascular system with the renal and respiratory systems; (2) modifies both systemic and regional blood flow during food-elicited arousal and feeding; and (3) changes the tension of longitudinal vascular muscle to adapt the arterial tree to changes in body shape. Indirect evidence suggests that the cardiovascular control circuit may also play a role in maintaining homeostasis during egg laying. Several putative neurotransmitters, including acetylcholine, serotonin, R15-alpha-1 and R15 apprx 2 peptides, have been localized to identified neurons in this circuit.